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This report represents the results of the investigation of the ruinsof a Glasshouse within the 18th century Walled Garden at Amisfieldin East Lothian.This was a joint project as part of the Peter Potter Lost Landscapesproject with support from the Amisfield Preservation Trust. Itincluded the involvement of over 180 people ranging through localschool classes, and groups from Tynepark Centre, North BerwickDay Centre, Dad’s Work and local volunteers as well as Studentsfrom Edinburgh University.The excavation uncovered the central Glasshouse on the north wall(south facing) and revealed the stonework from the 1783 buildingcontaining both a tile hypocaust system and later cast iron pipeheating system with raised beds and walkways related to theoriginal use as a Pineapple House (Vinery Pinery) built by theWemyss Estate.The Walled Garden also has four corner pavilions, of which thenorth east Pavilion was subjected to building record as part of atraining day.Geophysical work carried out by the Edinburgh ArchaeologicalField The project was made possible by Peter Potter Gallery,Haddinton as part of their Lost Landscapes Programme.
Citation preview
Peter Potter Lost Landscapes Programme
Amisfield Preservation Trust
Central Glasshouse Investigation, Amisfield Walled
Garden, Haddington, East Lothian
September 2011 & April 2012
Amisfield Walled Garden, Haddington East Lothian
Data Structure Report
National Grid Reference (NGR): NT 55505 67739 Prepared by: David Connolly, Stuart Dinning,
Doug Rocks-MacQueen and Maggie Struckmeier,
Illustration by: David Connolly Date of Fieldwork: September 2011 and April 2012 Date of Report: June 2012
Cover image: view to excavation from northeast gate Below: view of northeast corner pavilion, Amisfield Walled Garden.
Abstract
This report represents the results of the investigation of the ruins
of a Glasshouse within the 18th century Walled Garden at Amisfield
in East Lothian.
This was a joint project as part of the Peter Potter Lost Landscapes
project with support from the Amisfield Preservation Trust. It
included the involvement of over 180 people ranging through local
school classes, and groups from Tynepark Centre, North Berwick
Day Centre, Dad’s Work and local volunteers as well as Students
from Edinburgh University.
The excavation uncovered the central Glasshouse on the north wall
(south facing) and revealed the stonework from the 1783 building
containing both a tile hypocaust system and later cast iron pipe
heating system with raised beds and walkways related to the
original use as a Pineapple House (Vinery Pinery) built by the
Wemyss Estate.
The Walled Garden also has four corner pavilions, of which the
north east Pavilion was subjected to building record as part of a
training day.
Geophysical work carried out by the Edinburgh Archaeological
Field The project was made possible by Peter Potter Gallery,
Haddinton as part of their Lost Landscapes Programme.
Contents
1. INTRODUCTION ................................................................................................................... 1
1.1. Background ........................................................................................................................ 1
1.2. Location ............................................................................................................................. 1
2. Historical Background .......................................................................................................... 3
2.1. Overview ............................................................................................................................ 3
3 Methodology ....................................................................................................................... 6
3.1 Geophysical Survey ............................................................................................................ 6
3.2 Excavation .......................................................................................................................... 7
4 RESULTS .............................................................................................................................. 8
4.1 Introduction ....................................................................................................................... 8
4.2 Geophysical Survey ............................................................................................................ 8
4.3 Excavation ........................................................................................................................ 10
4.3 Finds Assemblage ............................................................................................................ 14
5 INTERPRETATION AND DISCUSSION ................................................................................... 18
5.1 Interpretation and Discussion ......................................................................................... 18
5.2 Notes on Pineapple cultivation........................................................................................ 21
6 FURTHER WORK ................................................................................................................ 25
6.1 Dissemination .................................................................................................................. 25
6.2 Fieldwork ......................................................................................................................... 25
7 ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS .................................................................................................. 25
8 BIBLIOGRAPHIC REFERENCES ............................................................................................. 30
APPENDIX 1.............................................................................................................................. 31
Context Register ......................................................................................................................... 31
APPENDIX 2.............................................................................................................................. 34
Finds Register ............................................................................................................................. 34
APPENDIX 3.............................................................................................................................. 36
Photographic Register ................................................................................................................. 36
APPENDIX 4: Discovery and Excavation Scotland Entry ……………………………………..………………………44
100 km
Glasgow Edinburgh
Aberdeen
Inverness
North Sea
Figure 1: Location Plan
Amisfield Walled Garden, Haddington
0 500m
0 5km
elevation
elevation
excavation
AmisfieldWalled Garden
Central Glasshouse, Amisfield Walled Garden, Haddington East Lothian
1
1. INTRODUCTION
1.1. Background
1.1.1. East Lothian has a rich history of architectural heritage and agricultural innovation. These elements come together in the remarkable structures of the 18th century known as walled gardens, of which Amisfield is one of the apogees of this form.
1.1.2. The Peter Potter Gallery Lost Landscape Project utilised local heritage assets with artistic
interpretation and community involvement – this approach meshed with one of the general aims and objectives of the Amisfield Preservation Trust, to engage local groups and promote the remarkable structure and the grounds.
1.1.3. This project, was confined to excavation, survey and record of the structures built against
the north wall of the walled garden. And the recording of a single corner pavilion as a training exercise for further works.
1.1.4. The project was undertaken as part of the Haddington based Peter Potter Gallery’s year
long programme; Lost Landscapes. Organisation was shared with the gallery staff to provide opportunities for local schools and other groups such as Dad’s Work, North Bwerwick Day Centre, Tynepark Centre and both local volunteers and Edinburgh University students to become involved in an archaeological project.
1.1.5. Support was also provided by members of the Amisfield Preservation Trust, who also
carried out guiding tours and historical talks.
1.2. Location
1.2.1. Amisfield Park, to the east of Haddington, East Lothian (Figure 1), once formed the policies
of Amisfield House, a Palladian mansion designed by Isaac Ware for Francis Charteris, 7th
Earl of Wemyss in the 1750s.
1.2.2. The walled garden is located at NT 53314 74192 and the excavation was carried out within
the confines of the central greenhouse extending south from the north wall of the walled
garden.
1.2.3. Elevations were recorded to the rear of the glasshouses and of the principal elevation of
the northeast corner pavilion.
Amisfield Walled Garden, Haddington
missing greenhouse
Figure 2: Geophysical results withgreenhouse from 1906 postcard shownas a low resistance (white) which does suggest no foundations or walls remain.
Central Glasshouse, Amisfield Walled Garden, Haddington East Lothian
3
2. Historical Background
2.1. Overview
2.1.1. Amisfield walled garden lies within the confines of Amisfield Park, an estate of approximately 85 hectares lying on the east side of the Royal Burgh of Haddington. The present north boundary of the estate is defined by the river Tyne although historically the park extended to the north as far as the A1 London to Edinburgh road.
2.1.2. The former Amisfield House, built in the 1750s and the earlier New Mills House stood
almost centrally within this area. The walled garden was built in the late 18th century on the east side of the park in 1783, close to the east boundary and Abbey Bridge Road, and replaced a smaller kitchen garden close to the river on the north.
2.1.3. The Walled Garden is A-listed and is one of the largest walled gardens in Scotland, covering
3.24 hectares (8 acres) it is enclosed by 4.9m high stone walls. At each corner is a large circular pavilion, each opening onto the garden with a Roman Doric colonnaded portico.
Plate 1: Early 20th century photograph dating to 1906 showing glasshouses to right and additional structures to left. The northwest pavilion is visible to the rear of the image.
2.1.4. The size of the garden, compared to a relatively modest estate, is exceptional. From the mid-18th century until 1969 the estate was a property of the earl of Wemyss, whose principal seat is now Gosford House.
Central Glasshouse, Amisfield Walled Garden, Haddington East Lothian
4
2.1.5. In 1783 the Francis Charteris, later the 7th Earl of Wemyss was beginning construction of his new garden and making alterations to his house but while the walled garden was still being constructed, he bought land at Gosford near Aberlady. He had previously inherited his maternal grandfather's surname and wealth including the estate of Amisfield near Haddington.
2.1.6. Shortly after the walled garden at Amisfield was complete, the Earl and his family had moved out to Gosford. From then on Amisfield house lived in partly by other family members and later in 19th century was rented out.
2.1.7. Account books from estate papers held at Gosford show that the Earl consulted widely on how to lay out and plant up the garden. And a number of eminent gardeners were paid for their advice. Mr Wilson, the gardener to the Countess of Glasgow gave most regular advice, and was paid for designs for a range of hot houses along the north wall, which are the ones currently under investigation.
2.1.8. These account books also tell us what was being bought for the hot houses, including mats for ‘melon beds’, ‘celery brushes’, and pine plants (pineapples) at a staggering £30 per plant over £2,000 in today’s money!
2.1.9. During the 20th century estates at Amisfield declined from a loss in the value of tenanted
land and forestry, and losses of manpower and requisitioning during two world wars, increased costs of maintaining buildings and landscape. In 1928 the house was demolished and in 1931 a large part of the park was laid out as a golf course.
Plate 2: 1940s photograph of the walled garden under the plough showing the three glasshouses and a central chimney.
Central Glasshouse, Amisfield Walled Garden, Haddington East Lothian
5
2.1.10. The garden was ploughed up during the Second World War and the ground was used to grow grain and vegetables. The Wemyss family sold the entire estate to Haddington Town Council in 1969 and in the 1980s the Council planted the walled garden as a tree nursery The glasshouses along the north wall had been demolished and only now are they once again being uncovered, revealing the technology and layout of these lost Pineapple Houses.
Plate 3: 2nd edition Ordnance Survey map, 25” to mile (to scale), 1893 showing the location of the Glasshouses and rear buildings on the north wall.
Central Glasshouse, Amisfield Walled Garden, Haddington East Lothian
6
3 Methodology
3.1 Geophysical Survey
3.1.1 The TR/CIA area ground resistance measuring equipment was used. The equipment
operates in the “twin” configuration in which two probes are mounted on a portable
frame 0.5m apart. They comprise one current input and one potential measurement
probe. Two remote probes, one for current input and one for potential measurement
complete the two circuits. They are inserted about 1.0m apart and are positioned so that
no reading is taken with the portable frame nearer than 15m to them. All readings are
taken at 1.0m intervals in lanes 1.0m wide totalling 400 measurements in each 20x20
grid.
3.1.2 The processor unit mounted on the frame generates the 137Hz signal current that flows
through the ground and the potential drop is detected by the measurement probes; the
computer in the unit converts this voltage reading to a ground resistance value in ohms.
The resistance value is indicated on a display and retained in a data store for later
processing. The data are downloaded via a RS232 interface to a computer running the
program “resistivity” The data is saved as text files and uploaded to the Sussex University
developed freeware program “Snuffler” The print out is in extended greyscale with black
and white limits based on highest and lowest ohms readings recorded.
3.1.3 It is normal practice to print high resistance values as black and low resistance as white
within a gradient based on processed resistance values. Data can be further processed by
clipping to improve overall contrast and by despiking to reduce abnormally high values.
Data is also interpolated between adjacent 1.0m squares to give a smoother gradation
based on 0.25m squares.
3.1.4 A total of four 20 by 20m survey squares were undertaken at the site (Figure 2), there
were no locations where it was not possible to carry out the survey.
Central Glasshouse, Amisfield Walled Garden, Haddington East Lothian
7
3.2 Excavation
3.2.1 The field work was directed by David Connolly during September 2011 and April 2012
3.2.2 Local volunteers, schoolchildren from three East Lothian schools, Adult learning students from Midlothian, University of Edinburgh Archaeology students, a group from ‘Dad’s Work’ and the Edinburgh Archaeology Field Society were all present during the excavation and survey. In total over 215 people were involved on a number of tasks including, geophysics, architectural recording and excavation. Training was provided where possible and several site tours were conducted, with feedback provided to the Peter Potter Gallery.
3.2.3 All excavation was undertaken by hand and according to standard CHC procedures. A number of trenches were placed in the project area (Figure 3). The trenches were excavated down to basal structures of the glasshouse.
3.2.4 A full record was maintained throughout the project, including photographic, drawn and written records. Digital media was used for the geophysical survey, carried out by the Edinburgh Archaeological Field Society.
3.2.5 The excavated areas have been left open, with the intension of conservation and potential rebuild, however, all walls and surfaces have been covered with terram semi permeable membrane and secured against erosion or weathering.
Central Glasshouse, Amisfield Walled Garden, Haddington East Lothian
8
4 RESULTS
4.1 Introduction
4.1.1 The archaeological excavation and surveys were undertaken between 3rd and 12th
September 2011 in addition to a single day on the 27th April 2012, with reasonably dry
weather conditions on both occasions.
4.1.2 The following should be read in conjunction with the data presented in Appendices 1 to
5. The excavation comprised of a single excavation area, though divided into separate
internal excavation areas and artefacts were retrieved from these trenches.
4.1.3 In addition, a short additional section (5.2) has been written, regarding the cultivation of
pineapples in general during the 18th century, to place the original function of the
glasshouse site into its chronological context.
4.2 Geophysical Survey
4.2.1 Results indicated possible low resistance anomalies which could represent the site of
some form of garden structure but equally could be due to varying root depth of different
tree species or to geology. The linear low resistance roughly forming the NE part of a
rectangle is possible evidence of a man-made structure and could be the site of a
foundation cut for a narrow walls, although there were no high resistances suggesting
remains of brick or stone wall foundations. ( see Figure 2)
4.2.2 It is possible that a greenhouse was located over the area noted but the perspective of
the photograph suggests that it was located farther to the East, closer to the conservatory
lean-to greenhouse, which might just coincide with linear low resistance. OS 6” maps,
editions for 1893 and 1906 shows two roofed buildings in the survey area which may be
other greenhouses or huts, the east most one possibly coinciding with the geophysical
anomaly.
Figure 3. South facing elevation and boundary wall (east facing)
East West
0 5m
0 5m
Rubble Rubble
Unexc
ava
ted
Unexcavated Unexcavated
001
001
004
005 006
008 009
003
003
002
002
007
012
011
013 014
015 033 048
016 019 021 022024
025023 027026
036
028 030
031
017 018 017
020 032
018
010
041042
044
040
010
034 035 045
046
047
049
039
043
038
037
029
Central Glasshouse, Amisfield Walled Garden, Haddington East Lothian
10
4.3 Excavation
4.2.1 Trenches were opened across the length of the central glasshouse, at both the east and
west elevations and three separate internal locations (see Figure 3). Clearance of
overgrowth was carried out by volunteers from the Amisfield Preservation trust prior to
trenches being established.
4.2.2 Initial removal of topsoil [017] and [043] represents a later burial of the site long after
the glasshouse itself has been demolished as few items were recovered from this upper
context, though two drinks cans of 1980s date were recovered from this level.
4.2.3 Beneath this level the signs of a deliberate demolition and dismantling were shown in
the mixed rubble and brick layer that underlay the topsoil. To the west this was
designated as [018] most clearly seen in the western lower passage area.
Plate 4: Demolition layer in lower passage
Central Glasshouse, Amisfield Walled Garden, Haddington East Lothian
11
4.2.4 A single skin brick wall [016] [042] with corner buttresses were uncovered and this
proved to be the bounding wall for planting beds, where pineapples would be grown.
Further evidence was related to the lower fills of the interior of the western bed, where
the organic matter contained frequent bark fragments that relate to tanning bark
material used in the process of pineapple horticulture. ( see section 5.2.9 ).
4.2.5 Beneath both the rubble in the lower passage and the interior of the planting beds a
stone slab floor was exposed ( [014] and [019] to the west and [041] to the east )
4.2.6 Both sides of the central glasshouse were mirror images of each other divided by the
stone central spine [026]. Both sides had external steps [012] and [046] to the upper
platforms [015] and [045] which also lead down steps [038] and [047] to the lower
passage running along the south side of the glasshouse.
4.2.7 There are signs of alteration of the heating system from the original (?) tiled hypocaust –
[025] and [036] which ran from the central spine and through the wall [001] – potentially
through the now blocked ‘holes’ *008+ and *009+. The tiled flue runs down ether side of
the central spine and turns into the lower passage where it would have run along the
edge before exiting beneath the external stairs and through [001]. This was recognised
beneath the badly damaged section of the eastern side of the glasshouse – [037] where
a channel ran directly beneath stairs [046] and through the wall. It is likely that this
originally led into intra-mural flues and up to vents on the wallhead which have been
previously reported (K. Rycroft pers comm) .
Plate 5: Central spine and both tiled hypocaust and cast iron pipe heating systems
running from main garden wall
Central Glasshouse, Amisfield Walled Garden, Haddington East Lothian
12
4.2.8 The entire flue system was filled with a sooty deposit, and the central wall flue holes are
badly scorched, which may give some clue to why they were abandoned and replaced
with a cast iron pipe system. Again, this is a mirror image – with pipes [034] and [035]
penetrating the wall, running down the spine wall, turning into the lower passage and
again turning to terminate in a loop at the internal stairs. This would suggest an inlow of
steam and returning outflow. All pipes have a stopcock valve to regulate temperature
and steam flow, much like a modern radiator.
Plate 6: Note the stop valves on the pipes and the scorching on the wall to the left.
4.2.9 The cast iron pipes are set above the floor level by circa 45cm and held on plinths, partly
constructed of brick and tiles from the earlier flue system. The scars of the cast iron
supports are clearly visible and match these artefacts discovered in the demolition
debris. Given that these types of pipes are only possible after 1840s, this give a late date
for the conversion, some 60 years plus after the original construction.
4.2.10 The other major alteration seems to be in water management. With the original ‘built in’
cisterns [024] and [028] created by inserting vertical slabs into cut channels in the floor
slabs and waterproofing / sealing with pitch. These are respected by the tiled flue but
with the insertion of the cast iron pipe system with the supporting plinths it is clear that
they are no longer in use, given that the plinths [023] and [027] overlie the feature.
Measuring 1 m wide x 0.7 m deep x 0.9 m high they would have held up to 140 gallons of
water in each tank. However, this must not have been sufficient for purpose and by
Central Glasshouse, Amisfield Walled Garden, Haddington East Lothian
13
inserting an L shaped wall into the corner of the planting beds ( walls [021] and [031] )
the capacity increases to 1200 gallons per tank.
Plate 7: One of the earlier tanks (seen as cut check on slab floor with rear slab still in
situ) and larger tank behind, lined with cement.
4.2.11 The stratigraphic chronology of the Central glasshouse is simple in terms of phasing, with
a known construction date of 1784-86 an internal rebuild in the second half of the 19th
century and then gradual decline until final demolition in the mid 20th century. However,
the exposed features are of at least regional importance, allowing a rare glimpse into the
construction and technology of a Glasshouse specifically designed for the cultivation of
pineapples. Although it is clear that it’s later life may have been just as a glasshouse, the
excavation has provided ample evidence for use and layout, allowing the potential for an
informed rebuild.
Central Glasshouse, Amisfield Walled Garden, Haddington East Lothian
14
4.3 Finds Assemblage
4.3.1 In general the assemblage of finds collected was to be expected from a garden structure
constructed of glass. With large quantity of flowerpots recovered from the lower levels
of excavation, in addition to glass panes, which ranged from earlier 18th century spun
glass, to 20th century plate glass. 3 distinct forms were recorded, ranging from thin 1.4
mm; 1.8- 2.4mm (spun glass) and 2.8-4mm (later plate glass.)
Plate 8: Spun glass fragments (above) various ceramic flower pots.
Central Glasshouse, Amisfield Walled Garden, Haddington East Lothian
15
4.3.2 In addition to the above
material, the excavation
also recovered fixings for
the stonework in the
form of iron clamps with
lead fill and also a
surviving value wheel
from the cast-iron pipes
of the later heating
system.
Plate 9: Iron clamps for holding the lower courses of cut masonry (above) and a steam
valve wheel (below)
Central Glasshouse, Amisfield Walled Garden, Haddington East Lothian
16
4.3.3 Personal items were also recovered
including three are of particular
note. The first is a Livery button,
worn by servants and decorated with
the armorial crests of the two
families. In this case it is Carmichael
(A dexter hand and arm in pale
armed and holding a broken spear
Proper.) and Macdonald (A hand in
armour holding a cross crosslet
fitchée Gules). Although it has been
impossible to locate the name of the
family and the date, it is likely from
the 18th century when the Wemyss
would have invited to view the
Walled garden and pineapple house. Plate 10: Livery Button
4.3.4 The other item is a clay pipe, several fragments of which were recovered, but one stands
out with the decoration of a stags head – which can be dated to the mid 19th century,
and would have undoubtedly belonged to one of the gardeners using the glasshouse.
Plate 11: mid 19th century stag head decoration clay pipe.
Central Glasshouse, Amisfield Walled Garden, Haddington East Lothian
17
4.3.5 The final find of note is a black glass bottle that is dated circa 1850-1870 based on style
of manufacture. This bottle was found in the lower demolition deposits and is
remarkable in preservation, given that it must have been sitting within the structure for
nearly a century before deposition. The handmade bottle was used for beer and will
have come from a local Haddington Brewery.
Plate 11: Handmade beer bottle
Central Glasshouse, Amisfield Walled Garden, Haddington East Lothian
18
5 INTERPRETATION AND DISCUSSION
5.1 Interpretation and Discussion
5.1.1 In the Peter McGowen Associates document of 2006, they highlight a section of records
from 1785
“Mason work continued through 1785, 1786 (CB4 1 February 1786) and 1787 (CB4 27
January 1787); James Burn, wright Haddington, was paid for ‘work done at Amisfield
House pavilions, temples in the new garden …’ (CB4 27 January 1785). The fine drawings
of Pinery, Vinery and Peach Houses held at Gosford House may be the work of one Jacob
Owen who on 2 February 1785 was referred to as ‘Jacob Owen, draughtsman to Mr
Wilson of Wilsington £5’(CB4 21 October 1784, 26 April 1785). This was followed on 26
April ‘… paid Mr Wilson gardiner to Lady Glasgow for plans of hothouse and vinery £5-5-
0’ *cross ref to above 21 October 1784, and 2 February 1785]; the plans are not dated or
signed but inscribed ‘P W.W.’ – possibly meaning ‘Presented by W.W.’? (detailed as
Appendix 2.4) If the hothouses were built as per the designs, the three peach houses
together with the grape house were in total 51.84m in length, and extended 4.32-4.4m
out from the rear wall; the grape house itself was 12.9m long. The pinery (for
pineapples) was 26.01m long and 5.52m wide. The garden wall shown to the rear of the
hothouses is shown as 5.81m high (and 0.75m thick), with S-shaped flues built to the
front of this wall.”1
5.1.2 The Amisfield excavation and recording took place over a 10 day period during Scottish
Archaeology Month in September. Each day was dedicated to a series of events and
drop in sessions where engagement with the archaeology and historic buildings was
encouraged. In addition to the excavation work, volunteers from the Amisfield
Preservation Trust and the digging team would conduct tours of the walled garden,
placing it both in its national historical context but also as part of the local account of
the 18th, 19th and 20th centuries. A further day was added in April 2012.
5.1.3 Work concentrated on the central footings of the glasshouses, located on the south
facing north wall. The excavation was supervised by 2 professional archaeologists
assisted by University of Edinburgh students. In total, over 80 adults, 100 children and
1 Peter McGowan Associates Landscape Architects and Heritage Management Consultants
Amisfield Walled Garden. Historic Survey and Development Plan, June 2006
Central Glasshouse, Amisfield Walled Garden, Haddington East Lothian
19
12 students took part in the work, with scores of visitors turning up to view the
astounding historic building and its wider landscape as well as the excavations and
gardens themselves.
5.1.4. The remarkable preservation of the site foundations and layout allowed an
unprecedented view into changing technologies from the 18th and 19th centuries, as well
as provide insights into the use of the glass houses in the 20th century – taking us inside
the now iconic Amisfield image of the ploughman within the garden and the glasshouses
behind.
5.1.5. The main stone foundations were of a local tuffa material - well cut and set – similar to
the well coursed and cut blocks of the north wall itself, which rises over 5m above
current ground surface. The three other walls surround the garden are of mixed
random rubble in contrast.
5.1.6. The interior brick structures were carefully exposed by the volunteers to provide a
ground plan for what has now been confirmed as a Pinery Vinery – a rare Pineapple
House dating to the 1780s. Previous historical research had pointed to this structure
being present, but now the physical evidence has been exposed and recorded.
5.1.7. The exterior stone footings had angled ‘notches’ cut into the stone approximately every
1.25m along the length of the building, to allow the external planting of vines that could
then be trained within the glasshouse, across the sloping roof and then down onto the
back wall.
5.1.8. The rear of the glasshouse was raised circa 1 metre above the ground surface as a solid
walkway, in front of which were a series of brick planting beds that would have held the
pineapple plants. There ws a further slab floored access passage to the front of the
glasshouse accessed by steps at either end (east and west). The most interesting part of
the construction was the technological steps taken from the original tile hypocaust
system which was blocked with wood charcoal to the more efficient cast iron pipe
system.
5.1.9. Additional material evidence allowed us to understand the heating system from the
wood bark (waste from the tanning process at the nearby leatherworks in Haddington)
used to provide a warm base for the pineapple plant, to the boiler systems to the rear
(and external) of the walled garden.
5.1.10. A variety of glass panes were recovered that showed a progression of use/replacement
from the 18th century spun glass through to modern plate glass.
Central Glasshouse, Amisfield Walled Garden, Haddington East Lothian
20
5.1.11. The recording of the north wall and the northeast corner pavilion will allow the entire
site to be recorded in detail, providing further information regarding the construction,
use and renovations that have marked the 230 years of development.
5.1.12. The project inspired and informed and led to follow-up visits to schools with the
intention of returning to the glasshouse in 2012 as well as continuing the recording of
the walls and buildings. Further research will be carried out from the Wemyss records
at Gosford House and a detailed examination of historic horticultural practices will
inform further the continuing story of Amisfield Walled Garden.
Central Glasshouse, Amisfield Walled Garden, Haddington East Lothian
21
5.2 Notes on Pineapple cultivation
5.2.1. The first crop of pineapples in Britain was achieved by a Dutch grower called Henry
Telende in Richmond, England between 1714 and 1716. to the estate owner, Matthew
Decker commissioned a painting in 1720 to celebrate this feat and the pineapple takes
pride of place as the sole object of admiration.
5.2.2. This then expands into a pineapple mania in a rush to develop the ability to grow
pineapples. Notable Georgian gentlemen like the poets William Cowper, Alexander Pope
and the architect Lord Burlington are all engaged in this horticultural arms race.
5.2.3. During this period, several inventions were developed or refined such as the use of
angled glazing, furnace-heated greenhouses called hothouses or stoves and Amisfield
shows signs of the later 18th century creativity and design.
5.2.4. Orangeries, which were used in the first attempts to grow the fruit did not provide
enough heat and light for the tropical pineapple. Heating in glasshouses during the mid
17th century was provided by furnaces placed within the structure, but fumes often
damaged or killed the plants.
5.2.5. The next innovation were hot-air flues were then devised, which dissipated heat slowly
through winding flues built within the width of walls and in our case, along tiled
hypocaust flues ( features [025] and [036] ) heated from furnaces to the rear of the
building that required constant stoking with coal.
5.2.6. This was dangerous however as many of the structures burned down when the
accumulation of soot within the flues caught fire – this was noticeable when the caps of
the surviving tiled flues were raised and the interior was noted to be filled full of black
sooty material.
Central Glasshouse, Amisfield Walled Garden, Haddington East Lothian
22
5.2.7. The later flue system, with cast iron pipes can only date to post 1845, when the first
pipes were cast vertically and by the turn of the century, all pipe was manufactured in
this way. This would provide an even heat and be easily controlled by the valve stops, of
which one wheel was recovered.
5.2.8. Henry Telende’s method of pineapple cultivation was published in Richard Bradley’s A
General Treatise of Husbandry and Gardening in 1721. Where he outlined the process by
which he would first bring on what he called ‘succession plants’, in large cold frames
called tan pits. The fruiting plants would subsequently be moved into the stove or
hothouse to benefit from the additional heat provided by the hot-air flues.
Plate 12: Illustration of hothouse and pinery-vinery from Loudon’s An Encyclopedia of
Gardening
5.2.9. The tan pits were lined with pebbles at the bottom followed by a layer of manure and
then topped with a layer of tanners’ bark into which the pots were set
5.2.10. Tanners’ bark (oak bark soaked in water and used in leather tanning) fermented slowly,
steadily producing a constant temperature of 25ºC-30ºC for two to three months and a
further two if stirred. Manure alone was inferior, in that it heated violently at first but
cooled more quickly. Fortunately the nearby Haddington tanneries would have supplied
an inexhaustible quantity of this material.
5.2.11. Stable bottom heat is essential for pineapple cultivation and tanners’ bark provided the
first reliable source. It became one of the most fundamental resources for hothouse
gardeners and remained in use until the end of the 19th century.
Central Glasshouse, Amisfield Walled Garden, Haddington East Lothian
23
5.2.12. James Justice, the principal clerk at the Court of Sessions at Edinburgh in the first half of
the 18th century, was also a talented if eccentric amateur gardener. On his estate at
Crichton in Midlothian he developed an incredibly efficient glasshouse in which he
combined both the tanning bark pits for ‘succession’ and fruiting plants under one roof.
Plate 13: James Justice’s design published in The Scots Gardiners’ Director in 1754.
5.2.13. In a letter to Philip Miller and other members of the Royal Society in 1728, he proudly
announces: ‘I have eight of the Ananas in fine fruit’. The letter makes Justice the first
documented gardener to have grown pineapples successfully in Scotland, which may be
one of the reasons why he was appointed fellow of The Royal Society in 1730.
5.2.14. James Scott and his brother Henry, were notable gardeners from Chiswick in England
who specialised in pineapples. It is on record that their skills were particular valued by
James Justice, and they supplied him with a pineapple stove and pineapple plants
shipped from Chiswick for his experiments in cultivation.
Central Glasshouse, Amisfield Walled Garden, Haddington East Lothian
24
5.2.15. In addition to the cultivation of this wonderful plant you could also show off your wealth by
then displaying the fruit in the centre of a well-laid dessert table arranged on a specially
made stand by one of the great ceramic manufacturers of the time- Spode.
5.2.16. The pineapple stand shown with the pineapple in situ is made from bone china and is in
Flower Embossed shape. It was made in about 1813 and is marked Spode in red. The
'embossed flower' decoration is actually part of the mould from which the object is made
and is left as the pure white of the bone china looking striking against the fashionable apple
green colour of the period. This was one part of a whole dessert services that could
comprise hundreds of pieces so other items were probably made in this design and a whole
spread would have looked magnificent whether in use or on show.
5.2.17. The pineapple would still have had a woody stem attached to it when picked and this
slotted through the central hole of the stand so it did not topple over. Slices from another
pineapple or other fruits were
laid around the edge to serve to
guests. There are stories of
when the catering was provided
by an outside firm for a grand
occasion (rather than in-house)
such was the expense of the
pineapple at this time that the
whole fruit was rescued and
carried off to be used as the
uneaten centrepiece for another
occasion at another location.
Plate 14 : The pineapple stand shown in Flower
Embossed shape. It was made in about 1813 and is
marked Spode
Central Glasshouse, Amisfield Walled Garden, Haddington East Lothian
25
6 FURTHER WORK
6.1 Dissemination
6.1.1 The results of this work will be synthesised and submitted to East Lothian Council, the
Peter Potter Gallery and the Amisfield Preservation Trust. In addition, précis will be
submitted to DES and a press release will be written to further highlight this hidden
gem.
6.2 Fieldwork
6.2.1 Further excavation work will continue on the two flanking glasshouses and architectural
recording will be carried out on the four corner pavilions. The walled garden itself
should not be seen in isolation however, and further documentary research on both the
gardening and building works within the garden and the wider landscape will be carried
out. Further community engagement will definitely allow many more people to feel
they have taken an active part in the archaeology of the site and hopefully be
encouraged to take part in more of the activities within the Amisfield Walled Garden.
7 ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS
7.1 The authors would like to thank the Peter Potter Gallery and Amisfield Preservation
Trust for the assistance and support, the Edinburgh Archaeological Field Society with
their geophysical expertise; the advice of the East Lothian Council's archaeological team;
Coralie Mills, with her Dendrochronology Workshop and the nearly 200 volunteers of all
ages who helped make this possible including children and staff from Yester, Direlton
and St Marys Primary Schools, groups from Dad’s Work, Tynepark Centre and North
Berwick Day Centre.
7.2. In addition, special thanks go to Doug Rocks-Macqueen, Stuart Dinning and Alex Westra
for their support, additional research and further dissemination of this project. This
would not have been possible without them.
Central Glasshouse, Amisfield Walled Garden, Haddington East Lothian
26
Some of the 200 + Group Visits and volunteers
Yester Primary School
St Marys Primary School
Central Glasshouse, Amisfield Walled Garden, Haddington East Lothian
27
Direlton Primary School
Tynepark Centre
Central Glasshouse, Amisfield Walled Garden, Haddington East Lothian
28
North Berwick Day Centre
Dad’s Work
Central Glasshouse, Amisfield Walled Garden, Haddington East Lothian
29
Drop in and Dig volunteers
David Connolly, Maggie Struckmeier, Stuart Dinning, Alex Westra and Doug Rocks-Macqueen (sitting)
Central Glasshouse, Amisfield Walled Garden, Haddington East Lothian
30
8 BIBLIOGRAPHIC REFERENCES
Amisfield Preservation Trust (2011), Amisfield Park; Discovering a Hidden Landscape
Bott V. (2011), The Scott Brothers of Chiswick. Available
http://nurserygardeners.com/?p=343 (Accessed: 2nd June 2012)
Forbes W Robertson EARLY SCOTTISH GARDENERS 1650-1750, p152;
Justice J, The Scots Gardiners’ Director, 1754
Lausen-Higgens J. (2010), A Taste for the Exotic: Pineapple cultivation in Britain. Available
at: http://www.buildingconservation.com/articles/pineapples/pineapples.htm (Accessed:
2nd June 2012)
Loudon J.C., An Encyclopedia of Gardening, Longman, Rees, Orme, Brown & Green, London,
1827
Minay P, ‘James Justice (16981763): 18th-century Scots Horticulturalist and Botanist – I’,
Garden History, Vol 1, No 2, 1973
Spode History (2011 ) Spode and Pineapples. Available at:
http://spodehistory.blogspot.co.uk/search/label/Pineapple (Accessed: 2nd June 2012)
Central Glasshouse, Amisfield Walled Garden, Haddington East Lothian
31
APPENDIX 1
Context Register
Context Feature Type Description Location 001 Structural Main wall, ashlar built from local stone., well jointed
with cream mortar with fake joint cut horizontal on each block. Stands 4.9-5m high
North elevation
002 Opening Doorway between central block and western glasshouse, through north wall, leads from ancillery buildings behind
North elevation
003 Opening Doorway between central block and eastern glasshouse, through north wall, leads from ancillary buildings behind
North elevation
004 Structural Coping stone slabs of sandstone on main North wall. North elevation
005 Structural Putlog holes for western glasshouse rafter beams. North elevation
006 Structural Putlog holes for central glasshouse rafter beams. North elevation
007 Structural Putlog holes for eastern glasshouse rafter beams. North elevation
008 Blocking Blocking of furnace hole into central glasshouse - signs of intense scorching around.
North elevation
009 Blocking Blocking of furnace hole into central glasshouse - signs of intense scorching around.
North elevation
010 Structural Southern lower plinth course of central glasshouse - two courses high, formed from large well cut blocks of local stone. - check on interior for glasshouse frame. Several angled cuts are spaced along external elevation for training vine into the glasshouse.
West half of Central Glasshouse
011 Structural Western lower plinth course of central glasshouse - two courses high, formed from large well cut blocks of local stone. - check on interior for glasshouse frame.
South of Central Glasshouse
012 Structural Set of three steps up to northwest corner of central glasshouse checks in upper stone show position of door
West half of Central Glasshouse
013 Structural Tile/brick plinth (constructed from earlier fragments of hypocaust ) for cast iron pipe
West half of Central Glasshouse
014 Structural Stone slab floor of finegrained sandstone in lower passage
West half of Central Glasshouse
015 Structural Stone slab floor of finegrained sandstone on upper platform passage -
West half of Central Glasshouse
016 Structural Brick wall surround for plant bed (original) West half of Central Glasshouse
017 Deposit Upper topsoil layer West half of Central Glasshouse
Central Glasshouse, Amisfield Walled Garden, Haddington East Lothian
32
Context Feature Type Description Location 018 Deposit Lower organic rich layer ( contains tanning bark ) West half of
Central Glasshouse
019 Structural Stone slab floor of finegrained sanstone at base of plant bed
West half of Central Glasshouse
020 Deposit Rubble and cement filling later tank to west West half of Central Glasshouse
021 Structural secondary brick wall to create western tank West half of Central Glasshouse
022 Structural Brick wall surround for plant bed (original) West half of Central Glasshouse
023 Structural Tile/brick plinth (constructed from earlier fragments of hypocaust ) for cast iron pipe
West half of Central Glasshouse
024 Structural Base of original stone slab cistern, with traces of pitch waterproofing
West half of Central Glasshouse
025 Structural Tiled hypocaust set on slab floor running from central spine done to south and runs west before it is removed.
West half of Central Glasshouse
026 Structural Central stone spine of ashlar cut local stone, running north-south. Divides east and west sections.
Centre divide of Central Glasshouse
027 Structural Tile/brick plinth (constructed from earlier fragments of hypocaust ) for cast iron pipe
East half of Central Glasshouse
028 Structural Base of original stone slab cistern, with traces of pitch waterproofing
East half of Central Glasshouse
029 Structural Spaced brick buttresses along back of planting beds East half of Central Glasshouse
030 Structural Brick wall surround for plant bed (original) west East half of Central Glasshouse
031 Structural secondary brick wall to create western tank East half of Central Glasshouse
032 Deposit Rubble and cement filling later tank to east East half of Central Glasshouse
033 Structural Angled section from flue entrance through rear wall to west up to platform
East half of Central Glasshouse
034 Structural Two 4" cast iron pipes overlying hypocaust tiles and resting on plinths and cast iron brackets
East half of Central Glasshouse
Central Glasshouse, Amisfield Walled Garden, Haddington East Lothian
33
Context Feature Type Description Location 035 Structural Two 4" cast iron pipes overlying hypocaust tiles and
resting on plinths and cast iron brackets East half of Central Glasshouse
036 Structural Tiled hypocaust set on slab floor running from central spine done to south and runs east before it is removed.
East half of Central Glasshouse
037 Structural Hole under steps [046] East half of Central Glasshouse
038 Structural Steps from upper platform down to lower passage East half of Central Glasshouse
039 Structural Western lower plinth course of central glasshouse - two courses high, formed from large well cut blocks of local stone. - check on interior for glasshouse frame.
East half of Central Glasshouse
040 Structural Tile/brick plinth (constructed from earlier fragments of hypocaust ) for cast iron pipe
East half of Central Glasshouse
041 Structural Stone slab floor of finegrained sandstone in lower passage
East half of Central Glasshouse
042 Structural Brick wall surround for plant bed (original) east East half of Central Glasshouse
043 Deposit Upper topsoil layer East half of Central Glasshouse
044 Deposit Lower demolition debris, mortar and brick East half of Central Glasshouse
045 Structural Stone slab floor of finegrained sandstone on upper platform passage - slabs are removed with mortar foundation exposed
East half of Central Glasshouse
046 Structural Surviving set of three steps up to northwest corner of central glasshouse
East half of Central Glasshouse
047 Structural Steps from upper platform down to lower passage West half of Central Glasshouse
048 Structural Angled section from flue entrance through rear wall to east up to platform
East half of Central Glasshouse
049 Structural Tile/brick plinth (constructed from earlier fragments of hypocaust ) for cast iron pipe single bracket fitting shows pipe 180 degree return.
West half of Central Glasshouse
Central Glasshouse, Amisfield Walled Garden, Haddington East Lothian
34
APPENDIX 2
Finds Register
BAG Context Type Description Date 1 017/018 Ceramic Selection of terracotta flower pots 5.5kg.
Four sample pieces retained Sept 2011
2 017/018 Ceramic 8 x shards of undecorated creamware - 2 x bases 1 x rim
Sept 2011
3 017/018 Ceramic 2 x Shards stoneware Sept 2011
4 017/018 Ceramic 11 x blue & white 10 x other decorated Sept 2011
5 017/018 Ceramic 6 x Redware shards Sept 2011
6 017/018 Ceramic Pantile 410g - 1 retained Sept 2011
7 017/018 Stone Roofing slate 1090g - 1 x pierced retained Sept 2011
8 028 Stone Pitch painted stonework from earlier water cistern
Sept 2011
9 017/018 Stone Anthracite 1220g - 1 piece retained Sept 2011
10 017/018 Slag 108g Sept 2011
11 017/018 Wood Tanning bark 10g Sept 2011
12 017/018 Wood Fragment of window frame Sept 2011
13 017/018 Metal 3 x Fe clamps. One with lead Sept 2011
14 017/018 Metal Pulley wheel and spike with lead setting for wall mount
Sept 2011
15 017/018 Metal Iron socketed artefact. Handle missing, possibly small hoe
Sept 2011
16 017/018 Metal Sheet of lead Sept 2011
17 017 Metal 2 x soft drinks cans Sept 2011
18 017/018 Metal Cast iron pipe fragments 3.5kg - 1 piece retained
Sept 2011
19 017/018 Shell Oyster shells 80g Sept 2011
20 017/018 Glass Bottle Glass various 19th & 20th century 530g
Sept 2011
21 017/018 Glass 18th century greenhouse spun glass 230g - 5 retained
Sept 2011
22 017/018 Glass Early 19th century greenhouse spun glass 760g - 6 retained
Sept 2011
23 017/018 Glass Early 20th century greenhouse plate glass 1085g - 3 retained
Sept 2011
24 017/018 Stone Sharpening stone Sept 2011
25 017/018 Ceramic 19th century clay pipe bowl with moulded stag head decoration
Sept 2011
26 017/018 Ceramic 19th century 2 x pipe bowls, 5 x pipe stems Sept 2011
27 018 Metal Embossed livery button. Sept 2011
28 017/018 Metal Various fittings including 2 sections of door hinge, chain, bolts and hooped end rod
Sept 2011
29 017/018 Bone Various including butchered cow and sheep Sept 2011
30 044 Ceramic Selection of terracotta flower pots 1300g. 3 sample pieces retained
April 2012
31 044 Ceramic 4 x shards undecorated creamware. Includes 1 x teapot knob
April 2012
Central Glasshouse, Amisfield Walled Garden, Haddington East Lothian
35
BAG Context Type Description Date 32 044 Ceramic 2 x Blue & white shards April 2012
33 044 Ceramic 1 x shard stoneware April 2012
34 044 Slag 1 piece April 2012
35 044 Glass 2 x shards 18th century greenhouse glass April 2012
36 044 Glass 1 base and 1 rim/neck 18th/early 19th century bottle glass
April 2012
37 044 Glass 1 complete black glass beer bottle 19th century
April 2012
38 044 Metal 3 x fittings including 1 trunk handle, 1 downpipe clamp, 1 Fe unknown
April 2012
39 044 Metal 1 x Brass steam pipe valve wheel April 2012
Central Glasshouse, Amisfield Walled Garden, Haddington East Lothian
36
APPENDIX 3
Photographic Register
No. File Name Direction to Description Date
September 2011
01 A11_1_01 West
Central glass house with north wall [001] to
rear. Pre excavation Sept 2011
02 A11_1_02 West
Central glass house with north wall [001] to
rear. Pre excavation Sept 2011
03 A11_1_03 North-west
Central glass house west end with north
wall [001] to rear. Pre excavation Sept 2011
04 A11_1_04 North-west
Central glass house East end with north
wall [001] to rear. Pre excavation Sept 2011
O5 A11_1_05 South-east
View from central glasshouse along central
axis to the south wall Sept 2011
06 A11_1_06 West Working shot Sept 2011
07 A11_1_07 Vertical
Removal of topsoil backfill [017] showing
corner of brick planting bed [016] Sept 2011
08 A11_1_08
North-East
View from central glasshouse over the
south wall with the castellated eye-catcher
doocot in the southern field.
Sept 2011
09 A11_1_09
North-west
Brick rubble and demolition debris in lower
passageway to west of planting bed wall
[016] and plinth [013] appearing to right..
Sept 2011
10 A11_1_10 North-west
Section of north wall [001] from west to
east. Part of composite 13 images Sept 2011
11 A11_1_11 North-west
Section of north wall [001] from west to
east. Part of composite 13 images Sept 2011
12 A11_1_12 North-west
Section of north wall [001] from west to
east. Part of composite 13 images Sept 2011
13 A11_1_13 North-west
Section of north wall [001] from west to
east. Part of composite 13 images Sept 2011
14 A11_1_14 North-west
Section of north wall [001] from west to
east. Part of composite 13 images Sept 2011
15 A11_1_15 North-west
Section of north wall [001] from west to
east. Part of composite 13 images Sept 2011
16 A11_1_16 North-west
Section of north wall [001] from west to
east. Part of composite 13 images Sept 2011
17 A11_1_017 North-west
Section of north wall [001] from west to
east. Part of composite 13 images Sept 2011
Central Glasshouse, Amisfield Walled Garden, Haddington East Lothian
37
No. File Name Direction to Description Date
18 A11_1_18 North-west
Section of north wall [001] from west to
east. Part of composite 13 images Sept 2011
19 A11_1_19 North-west
Section of north wall [001] from west to
east. Part of composite 13 images Sept 2011
20 A11_1_20 North-west
Section of north wall [001] from west to
east. Part of composite 13 images Sept 2011
21 A11_1_21 North-west
Section of north wall [001] from west to
east. Part of composite 13 images Sept 2011
22 A11_1_22 North-west
Section of north wall [001] from west to
east. Part of composite 13 images Sept 2011
23 A11_1_23 North North-east corner pavilion Sept 2011
24 A11_1_24 North North-east corner pavilion Sept 2011
25 A11_1_25
North-East
Section of western planting bed showing
topsoil backfill [017] and lower organic and
bark rich [018].
Sept 2011
26 A11_1_26
North-East
Detail of section of western planting bed
showing topsoil backfill [017] and lower
organic and bark rich [018].
Sept 2011
27 A11_1_27
North-west
View of excavated planting bed with slab
base [019] and brick buttresses [029]
Upper platform [015] to rear.
Sept 2011
28 A11_1_28
North-west
View of excavated planting bed with slab
base [019] and brick buttresses [029]
Upper platform [015] to rear planting bed
wall [016] and lower passage with slab
floor [014] and front wall [010]
Sept 2011
29 A11_1_29
South-west
Later water cistern formed by brick walls
[031] and planting bed [030] filled with
rubble [032]
Sept 2011
30 A11_1_30
North-west
View over earlier [028] water cistern and
later cistern [031] Plinth [027] and
hypocaust [036] on the left.
Sept 2011
31 A11_1_31 South-west
Side elevation of the stairs [047] with brick
wall of the western planting bed [016]. Sept 2011
32 A11_1_32
North- west
End of excavation of the western section of
the central glasshouse, with buttressed
corner of the planting bed [016]. Stairs
[047] and later pipework plints [013] and
[049] Lower passage slabs [014] exposed.
The external stairs [012] also visible to top
left.
Sept 2011
Central Glasshouse, Amisfield Walled Garden, Haddington East Lothian
38
No. File Name Direction to Description Date
33 A11_1_33
North- west
End of excavation of the western section of
the central glasshouse, with buttressed
corner of the planting bed [016]. Stairs
[047] and later pipework plinths [013] and
[049] Lower passage slabs [014] exposed.
The external stairs [012] also visible to top
left. ( note also vine root groove in front
wall [010]
Sept 2011
34 A11_1_34
North- west
End of excavation of the western section of
the central glasshouse Stairs [047] and
later pipework plinth [049] Lower passage
slabs [014] exposed. The external stairs
[012] also visible to top left.
Sept 2011
35 A11_1_35
North- west
Plinth [023] with two pipe supports in situ
located over earlier tiled heating system
[025] extending up to boiler behind north
wall. Note plinth overlies earlier water
cistern [024]
Sept 2011
36 A11_1_36
North- west
Plinth [023] with two pipe supports in situ
located over earlier tiled heating system
[025] extending up to boiler behind north
wall. Note plinth overlies earlier water
cistern [024]
Sept 2011
.37 A11_1_37
North- west
Plinth [023] with two pipe supports in situ
located over earlier tiled heating system
[025] extending up to boiler behind north
wall. Note plinth overlies earlier water
cistern [024]
Sept 2011
38 A11_1_38
North- west
Plinth [023] with two pipe supports in situ
located over earlier tiled heating system
[025] extending up to boiler behind north
wall. Note plinth overlies earlier water
cistern [024] – Note central stone wall
‘spine’ *026+ with lock into front wall *010+.
Sept 2011
39 A11_1_39
North- west
Detail of pipework [034] and [035] entering
the central glasshouse via cut hole in Wall
[001]
Sept 2011
40 A11_1_40
North- east
Detail of pipework [034] and [035] entering
the central glasshouse via cut hole in Wall
[001] with curving flue ramp [048] to west.
Sept 2011
Central Glasshouse, Amisfield Walled Garden, Haddington East Lothian
39
No. File Name Direction to Description Date
41 A11_1_41
North
Detail of pipework [034] and [035] entering
the central glasshouse via cut hole in Wall
[001] with curving flue ramp [048] to west.
Note valves on pipe, that connect to small
find /39\ - Brass steam pipe valve wheel
Sept 2011
42 A11_1_42
South-east
View over Later water cistern formed by
wall [021] and planting bed wall [022],
filled with demolition rubble [020] intact
tiled hypocaust system [025] runs down
the west side of the central spine wall
[026]. Pipes [034] visible set over earlier
heating system.
Sept 2011
43 A11_1_43
South-west
Earlier water cistern [028] with overlying
pipe plinth [027] and slab wall
incorporated into planting bed wall [030]
Sept 2011
44 A11_1_44
Vertical
View of lower passage slabs [014] with
planting bed [016] to the left and fron
stone wall [010] to right. Note the rebate
for the wooden glasshouse super structure.
Sept 2011
45 A11_1_45
North- west
Rubble filling lower passage of the western
section of the central glasshouse, with
buttressed corner of the planting bed
[016]. Stairs [047] and later pipework
plinths [013] and [049]. After removal of
topsoil fill [017]
Sept 2011
46 A11_1_46
North- west
End of excavation of the western section of
the central glasshouse, with buttressed
corner of the planting bed [016]. Stairs
[047] and later pipework plinths [013] and
[049] Lower passage slabs [014] exposed.
The external stairs [012] also visible to top
left. ( note also vine root groove in front
wall [010]
Sept 2011
47 A11_1_47
North- west
End of excavation of the western section of
the central glasshouse, with buttressed
corner of the planting bed [016]. Stairs
[047] and later pipework plinths [013] and
[049] Lower passage slabs [014] exposed.
The external stairs [012] also visible to top
left.
Sept 2011
April 2012
Central Glasshouse, Amisfield Walled Garden, Haddington East Lothian
40
No. File Name Direction to Description Date
51 A12_1_01 North- west Completed excavation of east section
of central glasshouse, with stairs [038]
planting bed brick wall [042] and plinth
[040] sitting over slabs [041]. East wall
[039] is badly damaged, but the
internal rebate for the glasshouse
superstructure is clearly visible. The
Damaged stairs [046] are at top right
and the upper platform [045] is top left
– though with upper slabs missing.
April 2012
52 A12_1_02 North- west Excavation of east section of central
glasshouse, with stairs [038] planting
bed brick wall [042] and plinth
[040]appearing . East wall [039] is
badly damaged, but the internal rebate
for the glasshouse superstructure is
clearly visible. The Damaged stairs
[046] are at top right and the upper
platform [045] is top left – though with
upper slabs missing.
April 2012
Amisfield Walled Garden, Haddington
Amisfield Walled Garden, Haddington
Amisfield Walled Garden, Haddington
Central Glasshouse, Amisfield Walled Garden, Haddington East Lothian
44
APPENDIX 4: Discovery and Excavation in Scotland Report
LOCAL AUTHORITY: East Lothian
PROJECT TITLE/SITE NAME: Amisfield Walled Garden
PROJECT CODE: AWG11
PARISH: HADDINGTON
NAME OF CONTRIBUTOR: David Connolly
NAME OF ORGANISATION: Connolly Heritage Consultancy
TYPE(S) OF PROJECT: Evaluation Trench Building Record
NMRS NO(S): NT57SW 68
SITE/MONUMENT TYPE(S): 18th- 19th century Vinery/Pinery Glass House
SIGNIFICANT FINDS: A single Livery Button of probable late 18th century date.
NGR (2 letters, 8 or 10 figures) NT 53314 74192
START DATE (this season) September 2011
END DATE (this season) September 2011
PREVIOUS WORK (incl. DES ref.) N/A
MAIN (NARRATIVE) DESCRIPTION:
(May include information
from other fields)
An archaeological investigation as part of the Peter Potter Lost Landscapes project and
the Amisfield Preservation Trust with involvement of over 180 people ranging from
local school classes, and groups from Tynepark Centre, North Berwick Day Centre,
Dad’s Work and local volunteers as well as Students from Edinburgh University.
The excavation uncovered the central Glasshouse on the north wall (south facing) and
revealed the stonework from the 1783 building was intact and contained both a tile
hypocaust system and later cast iron pipe heating system with raised beds and
walkways related to the original use as a Pineapple House (Vinery Pinery) built by the
Wemyss Estate. The Walled Garden (the largest true Walled Garden in Scotland) also
has four corner pavilions, of which the north east Pavilion was subjected to building
record as part of a training day. The garden has an area of 8 acres (3.24 hectares)
completely enclosed by 16 foot (5m) high walls of dressed Garvald Freestone on the
north wall and rough masonry on the other three elevations. Further work is required
to complete the investigation of this and the two flanking glasshouses. Geophysical
work carried out by the Edinburgh Archaeological Field Society revealed the
foundations of another later glasshouse to the south of the excavation area.
PROPOSED FUTURE WORK: Further excavation and building recording of all pavilions and walls
CAPTION(S) FOR ILLUSTRS: --
SPONSOR OR FUNDING BODY: Peter Potter Gallery, Connolly Heritage Consultancy, Amisfield Preservation
Trust
ADDRESS OF CONTRIBUTOR: Old SChoolhouse, Luggate Burn, East Lothian, EH41 4QA
EMAIL ADDRESS: [email protected]
ARCHIVE LOCATION RCAHMS , Connolly Heritage Consultancy