Medieval remains, 26-28 Market Square, Rochford (EHER 16370)

Excavation in 1978 recorded 14th-16th century deposits associated with the original medieval market which was laid out in the 14th century or early 15th century on a possible plan module of 3 rods (15m). Also recorded were the remains of two ovens.

1978. Archaeological excavation. The earliest recorded deposit was a grey sandy silt directly overlaying natural - not dated but possibly a water-course on the basis of comparison with the excavation results at East Street (see EHER 16371). The earliest dated context is 14th-15th century. The principal remains on site comprise brick footings, ovens and associated garden layers. Overall dating is later 15th-16th century. It appears that Market Square was laid out in the 14th century or early 15th century on a possible plan module of 3 rods (15m). <1> <2> NRHE data transfer: M.R Eddy for Essex County Council and DOE excavating at Nos. 24-26 Market Square discovered that the square was not that referred to in the market charter of 1257, as the earliest building on the site - a post-built structure with limestone stylobates - belonged to the mid 14th century. The main phase, with brick foundations, occurred in the late 15th century or early 16th century and remained little changed until the 19th century. The principal wall-lines of No.26 were recovered, as well as remains of two ovens, the latter with two main phases. <3> See also <4>.