Shaws dig unearths archaeological finds

April 2003

Archaeological evidence of important historical interest was discovered during the course of a dig at the site of the new multi-million euro department store development for Shaws in Wexford.

During the 11-week dig which was funded by Shaws, many interesting discoveries came to light, including evidence of early land reclamation.

Post-and-wattle fences marking 12th century boundaries were found, which actually correspond to modern property divisions on the opposite side of the Main Street.

The survival of four contemporary hearth sites indicates that the land was used initially for industrial purposes such as smelting or forging.

By the mid 13th century, a stone-built house/ warehouse was constructed on the site. The structures underwent many modifications until their demolition in the 17th century.

An ongoing study of the evidence is expected to provide archaeologists with information on the food, diet, weather conditions and even what insects were present during the different periods.

Parts of Wexford’s medieval stone street surface were exposed within the excavated area and correspond to those exposed elsewhere in the town.

Among the objects recovered during the excavations include a highly decorated metal spoon, gilt bronze cloak pins, belt buckles and medieval pottery, most of which came from France and England as a by-product of the wine trade, attesting to the wide cultural contacts employed by medieval Wexford and the affluence of the town during the Middle Ages, when trade flourished due to its relative proximity to mainland Europe.

Mervyn Shaw, the joint managing director of Shaws, said the company was delighted with the discovery and hopes to hold a public exhibition detailing the archaeological excavations in the new Wexford store when it opens.

Shaws are investing €12 million in the re-development of their Wexford premises. The new four-storey block will extend to 5,200 square metres and comprise a department store fronting North Main Street, and a luxury apartment block facing the Quays.