- Rolls-Royce Motor Cars conducts thorough archaeological survey
at the proposed extension site - Expert archaeologists from Oxford Archaeology, a prominent independent firm in Europe, oversee the survey
- Children from nearby March CE Primary School in Years 3, 4, and 5 participate as ‘junior archaeologists’ for a day
- Artifacts discovered during the survey will be shared with the local community by Rolls-Royce Motor Cars
“In commemorating 120 years of the Rolls-Royce marque in 2024, we delve into the ancient history of our home in Westhampnett. This archaeological survey, conducted as part of our recent planning process, offers new insights into the intriguing narrative of the surrounding area. We were delighted to involve children from The March CE Primary School in this educational experience; many were inspired by the work of Oxford Archaeology, even considering it as a future career path. We eagerly anticipate sharing these discoveries with our neighbors later this year.”
Andrew Ball, Head of Corporate Relations and Heritage at Rolls-Royce Motor Cars
Among the 20,000 artifacts unearthed in the archaeological survey at the proposed Rolls-Royce extension site at Goodwood are Roman roof tiles, ancient fingerprints, animal prints, pigs’ teeth, and pottery fragments dating back over 2,000 years.
Rolls-Royce Motor Cars recognizes the historical significance of the local area. The survey, initiated in November 2023, was led by specialists from Oxford Archaeology, a prominent organization in Europe. As part of its educational services, the organization hosted children from The March CE Primary School, located adjacent to the Rolls-Royce site, to witness the archaeological process firsthand. The children learned about archaeology, its importance, methodologies, and the role of archaeologists in uncovering the past.
Engaging in group activities, the children embraced the role of archaeologists, piecing together ancient artifacts and exploring various discoveries. In the field, they were shown remnants of past settlements in Westhampnett, such as ancient roads and dwellings, fostering a connection to the area’s rich history and inspiring potential career paths.
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The artifacts are currently under further examination and classification to deepen the understanding of life in the region over the centuries. Initial findings suggest the site may have been used for metal-working activities, continuing a historical industrial tradition in southern England that Rolls-Royce is now a part of.
Throughout the planning process, Rolls-Royce has prioritized transparency and community engagement. As a result, the artifacts will be publicly displayed in a local venue soon, offering residents a chance to explore the shared history of their home with Rolls-Royce.
West Sussex has a long history, with human habitation dating back to the Old Stone Age. Nearby Chichester has Roman origins, with notable sites like Fishbourne Roman Palace. The city was later fortified by King Alfred the Great and features a Norman Cathedral. The Home of Rolls-Royce sits on the Goodwood Estate, a historic property that has been in the possession of the Dukes of Richmond for over three centuries.