In the summer of 2013 MOLA archaeologists worked with local members of the public to excavate Stepney City Farm, as part of a Crossrail community archaeology project. The dig was accompanied by a series of open-days, workshops and demonstrations.
Local people were delighted at being given an opportunity to excavate a real archaeological site, under the supervision of our professional archaeologists.
In 2011, Crossrail, Europe’s largest construction project, started archaeological investigation in Stepney Green. Our archaeologists revealed the foundations of King John’s Manor built between 1450 and 1550; later extended by the Marquis of Worcester in 1597 to become known as Worcester House. The community dig further investigated the site, uncovering a moat surrounding the remains of the Tudor manor house and a number of associated finds; including a copper dress pin and the remains of a Tudor shoe.
Volunteers gained first-hand experience in excavation techniques and understanding of archaeological material, working alongside our experienced archaeologists and finds specialists.
