During an excavation in 1989, Archaeologist Dr Makepeace discovered a medieval longhouse. Which was uncovered not far from the path that runs past Colt Croft that you may be on. The longhouse was approximately 5.5m wide and 22.5m long, making it a behemoth of a structure in a relatively uninhabited rural landscape. Longhouses provided a large horizontal living space for a large amount of people, albeit in close quarters; as well as additional loft storage space above for hay and grains to be kept over the winter months.
The house is believed to be part of a medieval farming settlement. Archaeological and historical evidence allow us to date the long house to the early 12th century AD. Pottery from the site such as the green glazed ware, were medieval in nature and matched this date period. The earliest written records state Staden as a farming settlement in 1101 AD.
A large amount of faunal (animal) remains were uncovered by archaeologists, these included long bones, smaller fragments and teeth.
The majority of these were found to be cow and pig bone, however some horse and domesticated dog bones were also found. All of this points to Staden during the medieval period being a farming settlement, as the historical records state.
Also found at the long house were a vast amount of iron objects, including 3 iron knives. These knives were partially conserved by The Royal Armoury, and ascertained to be contemporary with the other dated materials. However they in a poor condition due to age, time in storage and being from a highly alkali soil.
However due to the overall lack of material found within the longhouse it is believed to have only been used seasonally, likely during the summer months, as a livestock herding homestead and storage building.
If you are interested in learning more why not read the excavators final archaeological report?