When Built

      Additional topics can be presented that support the theory that the rectangular structures presented in the last post were likely used for shearing sheep.  When were these built should fit the chronology of the Celtic groups who are thought to occupy these spaces. Again using the hill fort book by Williams, he outlines the chronology of Old Oswestry as being built in three phases [p.191-193]. He writes, "Evidence of habitation of the site has been found dating back to some time before 500 B.C. ...". He believes this was the first occupation and labels this phase 1. He describes phase 2 as two further ramparts being built round the whole hill side. Phase 3 was to add the remaining ramparts and ditches which would include the rectangular structures being discussed. He dates all the structures being completed before the Roman invasion of 55 B.C. Thus, for five centuries this hill fort has stood as a structure of cooperation between the Celtic tribes who came to recognize this geographic location strategic to all's survival. You've got to get all those sheep from their winter abode, eastern side, to the graze lands on the western side. Now here is a copy of the figure that Williams gives on page 191 of his book. Check the location of the rectangular spaces on his drawing.