RFC Yatesbury Community Project Investigating the First World War German Prisoner of War Camp at Yatesbury

A multi disciplinary investigation was undertaken on the site incorporating field investigation - metal detecting, test pitting, field walking and geophysical (magnetometry) surveys with documentary and oral history research. The work was undertaken over three seasons - one weekend each year by the Wiltshire Archaeology Field Group and local residents. The geophysical survey was undertaken by Archaeological Surveys Ltd and is subject of a separate report. The investigation identified the location of the First World War German POW camp at Yatesbury and recovered a large amount of material culture associated with the camp infrastructure, including hut fittings, and with the occupants - German POWs and British camp guards, including domestic and personal objects. A number of German finds were recovered including cap badges, buttons, belt and webbing fittings. The camp's sewage system was also identified. In addition to the project's primary objective of identifying the location of the POW camp, the project has contributed greatly to our broader understanding of First World War POW camps in England.