A significant archaeological discovery has emerged on the banks of the River Wear near Sunderland, revealing a Roman industrial hub in the hamlet of Offerton. Excavations led by the Vedra Hylton Community Association, with support from Durham University, have uncovered over 800 whetstones and 11 stone anchors, dating back to the Roman period. This site marks the largest known whetstone find of its kind in North West Europe, highlighting Offerton’s role within the manufacturing and trade networks of Roman Britain.
The discovery, confirmed through sediment analysis by experts from Durham University’s Department of Archaeology, indicates that the site is likely the first in Britain where stone was intentionally quarried for whetstone production. The team believes there could be hundreds, possibly thousands, more whetstones still buried within the riverbank. The findings will be featured in a new series of Digging for Britain on BBC Two, available on iPlayer from January 7, 2024.
Significant Findings and Historical Context
In addition to the whetstones and anchors, the excavation has revealed a post-medieval wooden jetty structure and earlier stone-built jetties. The team discovered tools such as chisels and stone splitters, alongside a leather shoe from the Tudor period, iron and stone cannonballs, and lead shot from the English Civil Wars. Collectively, these artifacts could extend the known timeline of human activity along this section of the River Wear by over 1,800 years.
Gary Bankhead, President of the Vedra Hylton Community Association and Honorary Fellow at Durham University, expressed the significance of the findings. “This isn’t just a Roman site—it’s Sunderland’s story, revealed through the dedication of local volunteers and researchers working side by side. The River Wear has once again offered us a remarkable discovery,” he said. Bankhead noted that the recovery of Roman coins and firm optically stimulated luminescence (OSL) dating now confirm the site’s Roman origins, showcasing evidence of one of Sunderland’s earliest known industries.
Dr. Eleri Cousins, an Assistant Professor in Roman Archaeology, emphasized the site’s potential to enhance understanding of manufacturing and industry in Roman Britain, particularly in the northern province. “This is an exciting discovery that tells a fascinating story about how ordinary objects like whetstones could be produced on an industrial scale,” she stated.
Community Impact and Future Research
The project benefitted from collaboration with The Crown Estate, which manages approximately half of the foreshore around England, Wales, and Northern Ireland. Cllr Michael Mordey, leader of Sunderland City Council, acknowledged the importance of the findings. “Ships, coal, pottery, glass, and cars have all been made on the banks of the River Wear over the years. This research has revealed yet another generation of makers who have shaped the industrious city we are today,” he remarked.
Emily Swift, Senior Asset Manager for Coastal at The Crown Estate, expressed enthusiasm about the discovery. “We were so excited to hear of a Roman archaeological discovery in the River Wear. Mapping out the historical significance of the River Wear helps us work closely with Sunderland City Council to maintain and preserve the river for future generations,” she noted.
As further survey work is planned to determine the full scale and extent of the site, this discovery not only sheds light on Offerton’s historical significance but also opens new avenues for understanding the complex legacy of human activity along the River Wear during the Roman period.
