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Founded 1955
Pastfinders (Fieldwork and Research Group)
The Society has a Fieldwork and Research Group led by a professional archaeologist (Dr. Martin Dearne) that works closely with the
Borough of Enfield and English Heritage, carrying out surveys and excavations especially on the Scheduled Ancient Monument of
Elsyng Tudor Palace in the grounds of Forty Hall.
Recently excavated sites include: a brick firing 'clamp' and a section of a wing of Elsyng palace with a large drain containing many finds); at Forty Hall (in 2005 and 2006 revealing its lost bay windows); in the Bush Hill Park Roman settlement (in 2005 including boundary ditches with a ritual deposit); and in the grounds of Myddelton House (in 2004 and 2005 investigating the site of Bowling Green manor house).
Sites previously investigated by the Society include a prehistoric earthwork at Bush Hill Park, many areas of the nearby Romano-British
settlement, sections of both the Elsyng palace and the former 'palace' in Enfield Town centre, sections of Roman Ermine Street and
seventeenth to nineteenth century structures and formal garden terraces in the grounds of Forty Hall.
Diggers of all experience (including beginners) are welcome to participate, but regrettably those under 16 years of age are not permitted to take part in excavations.
If you would like to get involved please contact our Chairman and Excavation Site Manager Michael Dewbrey (01707 873 756)