MSO6304 - Medieval farmstead at Huntsham (Monument)

A possible deserted medieval farmstead recorded from aerial photographs was later revealed to be drainage channels and a post-medieval sluice. It was most likely located further north, probably at Huntsham Cottage.

Paul de Hunshamp is mentioned in the 1327 Lay Subsidy. [1] A possible deserted medieval farm is recorded from documentary and aerial photography. [2,3] 'Huntsham' is recorded on the First Edition Ordnance Survey map. [4] Low banks are visible on aerial photography, forming a trackway and small enclosures, southwest of Huntsham. This is a possible deserted farm. [5] Field investigation revealed two hollows, some 5 metres wide and 20 metres long, centred at SS 9515 4293, and interpreted as drainage channels. The field is very low lying and marshy, its northern edge is formed by the River Avill. A weir built of stone and river gravel lies at SS 9511 4294. Huntsham Farm (now Huntsham Cottage) lies to the north, on higher ground away from the floodplain of the river, and was probably the site mentioned in the 14th century documents. [6] The earthworks can be seen on several aerial photographs of the area and appear to be a post medieval drainage system, possibly associated with the water meadow visible to the south. [7,8] This record was enhanced as part of the National Record of the Historic Environment to Exmoor National Park Historic Environment Record data transfer project. [10]