Prehistoric Glass at Worth Matravers. During excavations at Worth Matravers in 2010, an insignificant piece of colourless glass together with some animal bone and pottery fragments were found in a small pit. The pit itself was completely covered and sealed by a large quernstone. The pottery which dated to about 600 BC hinted at the antiquity of the glass, but such material is almost absent from Britain at this date. The glass fragment which is part of a finger ring, was sent to Professor Julian Henderson at Nottingham University for investigation and chemical analyses. Initial results indicate that the glass is of a soda lime type and possibly made from raw materials occurring on the Levantine (modern Lebanon) coast. Antimony had been added as a clarifier and the Worth glass is a very early example of this technique. Further tests will give a ‘diagnostic signature’ on the raw materials of the glass, pinpointing the exact place of manufacture. This rare ring fragment is contemporary with the associated pottery and is the earliest piece of glass to have been found in Dorset. The links with the Middle East at this date are intriguing, hinting at long distance, maybe even Phoenician trade in luxury goods.  Lilian Ladle East Dorset Antiquarian Society The Worth Matravers Archaeology Project Watch Video
Tobacco Pipe Kilns - It was reported that a tobacco pipe workshop and kiln have been found during groundworks being carried out in Wareham. Dated to mid 19th century. Plans are in hand for a full excavation in the autumn.   Brick tile and lime. -  Feature on South Haven previously thought to be part of the 18th century Passage House is now seen as another kiln lately used for lime making but possibly started as a tobacco pipe kiln. Many reports from this location of pipe finds some in pristine condition but the maker has not been identified.  Other brick and tile kiln sites in Bramble Bush Bay, Studland.   Bestwall Quarry - Monograph of Volume 2 due in Spring 2012.