Archaeologists dig into College history

Archaeologists have dug into centuries of College history as they carry out the first stage of a major project in Pump Court, next to our Grade I listed Hall.

We hope to expand our kitchens to make them fit for purpose for decades to come and brought in the Cambridge Archaeological Unit to undertake an essential exploratory dig.

College archivist, Robert Athol, said: “Extensive archaeological excavations have never taken place on this part of the College site. We know through documentary evidence and artwork that Pump Court has a very complex history and contained numerous ancillary buildings for the College kitchens.

“The archaeological test pits have uncovered some of the foundations of these buildings whilst finds such as large quantities of animal bone and shards of pottery provide an insight into daily life. Hopefully more discoveries will be made when wider areas are excavated at a later date.”

Domestic bursar, Simon Hawkey, said: “Eating together is an important part of community life at Jesus College but, as we’ve grown, our kitchens have begun to show their age. We would like to expand and develop the current kitchens so that they can meet the College’s needs for the next century and beyond. 

"We’re particularly keen to improve disability access to our dining hall and make the kitchens much more sustainable and environmentally friendly.”

Major archaeology works are scheduled for summer 2019 to explore the findings of the initial survey.