Description

Content summary: 26 October 1800 : from HP Wyndham - comments on the accuracy of the plan of the villa. Is pleased that Mr Lysons has visited him. 'As to the oblong barrow you have lately intersected, it was certainly sepulchral (tho' not what is commonly called, a Battle Barrow). ' Thinks that the coat of marl was the original finish on the tumuli and would also have found it under the centre where he might have found human and animal bones if he had excavated further. Details dimensions of various barrows and theories about the barrows on Codford Down and Mancombe Ring on Warminster Down. Bratton Hill would be a very desirable location overlooking the Vale. 'Tho' many of the the formidable camps are, at this time, attributed to the Romans, I am of opinion that they mark out the progress of the Saxons in their conquest of these western parts.' Says that the Romans met with no problems from the Britons who became their 'protecting friends'.The only Roman camp in the neighbourhood is at Bishopstrow and hopes he will have time to examine the site in due course. He and Mr Coxe think that the Battle Barrow at Bishopstrow should be excavated as probably the largest in the Island. The fact that it is in a low position in Bishopstrow field indicates that it was sepulchral.'Tho' I have supposed that the numerous Camps and Castles around you were formed by the Saxons, yet I am ready to allow in later times they may have been used, and successfully, against their original founder by the invading Danes which in some cases might alter & enlarge them. He needs to ascertain the owner of the land to get permission to dig.

Summary: 26 October 1800 : from HP Wyndham - discussion of the Battle Barrow and the barrows on Codford and Warminster Down. Roman camp at Bishopstrow. Discussion of permission to dig.