Broughton Brook & Broughton Manor Farm
Excavations carried out before the housing development revealed that the area north of Broughton Brook was used for farming for thousands of years.
There were farm buildings here in the late Iron Age - around 100 years before the Common Era! Farming continued during the pre-Roman and early Roman conquest. The old farmstead was replaced with a large, central roundhouse and three smaller roundhouses nearby. Archaeologists uncovered a pottery kiln in one of the many enclosures.
What was found on site?
During the same period, the southern part of the site was used for burials. 44 cremation pots with grave goods were found, dating from around 10 CE to 199 CE. The offerings included personal items such as pottery, brooches, and beads, and some had animal bones.
Other artefacts uncovered included Roman tweezers, coins and an armilla (a medal awarded within the Roman army).
Interact with the graphic above to see a 3D model of one of the cremation jugs found in the area. Please accept cookies to display.
By the mid-Roman period, the footings of the farm buildings were made of stone, rather than wattle and daub, suggesting the tenants had become wealthy. The farmers may have traded with the Roman army stationed at the town and fort of Magiovinium, near Fenny Stratford, selling cattle, horses, and pottery (four kilns were found from this period). Broughton Brook could have been navigable at this time, which would have aided trade.
By the end of the Roman period, the site was abandoned. The small amount of finds from after this period suggests that the whole area was subsequently used as fields for farming, eventually becoming part of Broughton Manor Farm.
With thanks to Milton Keynes Museum to access to their collection.
Broughton Manor Farm is now under the school and housing estate north of Broughton Brook, but for more information on the area, visit the park webpage.
Discover Milton Keynes' heritage by exploring the city's historical landmarks and scheduled ancient monuments.
