Historical use of wood
Historical Use Of Wood
Archaeological excavations have revealed evidence of woodland areas in Little Wittenham back in ancient times.
Evidence of Ancient Woodland in Little Wittenham
- Snails found in the fills of the Late Bronze Age hilltop enclosure on Castle Hill suggest that the area was wooded in the Bronze Age.
- From 1048 the manor of Little Wittenham was owned by Abingdon Abbey and contributed income from woodland products (1384 Accounts of the Obientars of Abingdon Abbey)
- Beech charcoal has been found in a 12th/13th century pit during the 2003 excavation on Castle Hill. This is evidence that beech trees could have topped the clumps during the medieval period.
- First reference to Little Wittenham woodland was at time of 18th century sale by the Dunch family. Little Wittenham Wood is clearly shown on the 1761 Rocque map, neatly divided by linear woodland rides.
- Tithe map 1843-4 shows woodland as 'The Great Wood' and also refers to 'Walnut Tree Piece field' (suggesting walnuts were cultivated) north of Round Hill.(Now, many years later, the Northmoor Trust sponsors a major walnut breeding programme, see below).
- Little Wittenham census records from the late 19th century refer to occupations including woodman, hurdle maker and timber haulier.
