A groundbreaking archaeological find has recently been uncovered beneath the former Ocky White department store in Haverfordwest, Pembrokeshire, Wales. The excavation has brought to light the skeletal remains of more than 240 individuals, including over 100 children, in conjunction with the remnants of a medieval priory. This discovery has been lauded as exceptionally significant by experts, providing valuable insights into the area’s extensive history dating back to the 13th century.
Historical records suggest that the site corresponds with the original location of St. Saviour’s Priory, which was established circa 1256. King Henry III reportedly allocated funds in 1246 for the construction of a church for the friars, with further financial assistance granted a decade later for its relocation and enlargement. The priory thrived for many years before facing financial challenges in the early 16th century, ultimately leading to its dissolution in 1538 as part of the second phase of monastic reforms.
This remarkable discovery not only illuminates aspects of medieval life but also sheds light on the mortality rates prevalent during that era. Andrew Shobbrook, the site supervisor from Dyfed Archaeological Trust, has highlighted that approximately half of the remains belong to children, particularly infants under the age of four, underscoring the high child mortality rates characteristic of the time. Additionally, some of the remains exhibit evidence of battle injuries, potentially linking them to the siege of Haverfordwest by French and Welsh rebels in 1405.
The unearthing of these remains offers a poignant glimpse into the past, allowing us to piece together the lived experiences and hardships endured by individuals in medieval times. Through meticulous excavation and analysis, archaeologists continue to unravel the mysteries buried beneath the surface, enriching our understanding of history and the narratives woven within the very fabric of the land.
