A Romano-British pottery kiln situated in marshland, at Barksore Farm (TQ 8667), was observed by the Upchurch Archaeological Research Group during its gradual erosion. The kiln is 2ft below the surface bank. It was the circular updraught type and of a simple construction (see illustration card for plan). The furnace pit had been dug into the natural clay forming a hole approximately 3ft in diameter and 1ft in depth. At the bottom of the pit were two pedestals which supported a floor of clay bars. No evidence of a firing chamber was found, but it seems fairly certain that it consisted of a temporary, domed structure. The kiln had been abandoned when the floor collapsed, depositing fire bars and pottery into the furnace pit. The pottery was oxidised and all sherds contained crushed flint and pottery. All examples are of a mid 1st century date, the most common form being the bead-rim. (1) Additional references - information as authority 1. (2-3)

<1> Kent Arch Review 30 1973 288-90 fig (I Jackson) (OS Card Reference). SKE45851.

<2> Britannia 4 1973 321 (DR Wilson) (OS Card Reference). SKE38373.

<3> Pottery Kilns of Ro Brit RCHME Supplementary Series 5 1984 Gazetteer 405 (V Swan) (OS Card Reference). SKE48564.