The remains of an 19th century convict station have been unearthed at Kings Meadows.
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An archaeological excavation in Kings Meadows was completed last week, revealing remnants of a large structure dating back to 1837.
The discovery was initially made by Southern Archaeology and local historian and surveyor John Dent during a dig earlier in the year.
Since then, they have been negotiating with the landowner and City of Launceston Council to conduct a further examination of the site.
Given the site had already been approved as a sub-division, the purpose of dig was to salvage and catalogue any artefacts.
It focused on selected areas within the building and the associated commandant’s cottage.
Southern Archaeology owner Darren Watton said while very little remains of the original structure, they had uncovered substantial evidence of the station’s existence.
“We have found remnants of the oven, as well as a brick reservoir,” he said.
“There is also the remains of a stable/milking shed, which include some old horse shoes, as well as some ceramic that predates 1840.
“One of the more notable discoveries has been a felt hat, which we have sent to the museum to be curated.”
Constructed in 1837, the Kings Meadow Convict Station housed more than 150 convicts, as well as officials and military personnel.
It was built to assist with the Evandale to Launceston Water Scheme, which proved to be unsuccessful.
The structure, which was about 40 by 40 metres, was abandoned as a convict station the in early 1840s, before being sold to a private landowner in 1854.
Mr Watton said while most of the structure had been destroyed over time, they had managed to salvage different parts of what remained.
“We’ve collected samples of some of the bricks and other artefacts for our cataloguing that will hopefully become a display.”
“There is also materials such as ceramic and bottle pieces that we can use to learn more about the site.”
“A report on the excavation will be provided to council and the landowner.”
The proposed sub-division will go ahead as planned.