Abstract/Summary

A substantial body of new charcoal data has been produced by targeted analysis of 32 contexts from features representing the Pre-Conquest establishment of the oppidum at Insula IX, Silchester. A variety of activities is proposed , including domestic use (heating, cooking), site clearance, provision of animal fodder/bedding, smithing and/or possible smelting. Evidence for the presence and exploitation of a large number of taxa is presented, but clear targeting of oak as the fuel of choice can be seen, with management by short-rotation coppicing or pollarding to maintain supply proposed from the high proportion of roundwood cut at 3–5 years. A mosaic landscape is described, with the presence and exploitation of heath, scrub, wetland and open mixed deciduous woodland demonstrated. The re-establishment of birch scrub/secondary woodland during this time is of interest, implying as it does, changes in patterns or intensity of arable or pastoral activity. The chronology established for the site has enabled consideration of a short period of time, at most 65 years.