Digging into Rochdale’s history

Clay pot pipes found in the foundations of Balderstone Hall lying hidden underneath Balderstone Park have been unearthed by professional and novice archaeologists

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The foundations of a historical mansion lying hidden underneath Balderstone Park have been unearthed by professional and novice archaeologists.

The remains of Balderstone Hall that has origins stretching back to the thirteenth century, along with many artefacts from bygone years including ceramics, coins and tools, were recovered. The oldest find was a clay pipe bowl and stem dating from 1680 - 1750 which predates the building of the 1852 Hall.

Two weeks have been spent excavating the site and streams of locals and school children have been paying the site a visit to learn more about the old hall and the history of the local area.

Councillor Peter Williams, cabinet member of economic development and customer services at Rochdale Borough Council, said: “What a wonderful opportunity to dig deep into Rochdale’s rich historical past. We should be proud of our heritage and this archaeological dig I’m sure has been inspiring to local people and children.

“In a constantly advancing world we risk losing sight of the past and its importance. I’m thrilled Dig Greater Manchester has helped us uncover these hidden relics that give us a unique insight into Rochdale life in bygone years.”

Completed as part of Dig Greater Manchester, the project will involve over 9,000 people taking part in archaeological projects over four-and-a-half years in 11 boroughs in the region. It is being funded by the Association of Greater Manchester Authorities and managed by the University of Salford.

Brian Grimsditch, Senior Archaeologist at the University of Salford, added: “Community involvement archaeology is one of the principles of archaeological practice at the University of Salford. The heritage we uncover belongs to local people, not just to academics, professional archaeologists or politicians.

“Our project helps communities take ownership of their heritage, to help develop understanding and appreciation of the historical significance of their hometown.”

The site was opened up to volunteers who wanted to turn their hand to archaeology. Jonah Yusuf, a 24 year old Masters student studying MA Building Information Modelling at Salford University, jumped at the chance. “I was interested in understanding what materials and building techniques were used centuries ago. And I’m so glad I volunteered it has been extremely rewarding as well as pleasurable - I’m impressed with the standard of carpentry skills that have been found,” he said.

The Balderstone Hall Dig ran from 1 – 15 June 2013. Hundreds of people from across Greater Manchester visited or took part. More photographs of the dig can be found on the council’s Flickr page.

For more information on Greater Manchester Dig visit www.salford.ac.uk