Local History

Her head and shoulders can clearly be seen on a glazed floor tile unearthed in Shorne Woods, near Gravesend – but nobody knows who she is.

Volunteers were nearing the end of a four-year Kent County Council community archaeology dig when the discovery was made.

At first, all they could see was the red tile. However, when they turned it over and carefully scraped away the topsoil, her lovely image was revealed. The woman’s fair hair looks braided and she appears to be wearing a brooch around her neck, but her facial features are unclear, adding to the intrigue about her identity.

It is thought she may have been one of the wives from the Cobham family who lived at medieval Randall Manor, or possibly a religious image from the period.

Community Archaeologist Andrew Mayfield with tile.

Volunteer archaeologist Albert Daniels, who found the tile, said: “It’s astounding. It’s in very good condition and it’s not worn. It’s the best one I have ever found. When I saw the face, my first thought was: 'Who is this mystery figure?'”

This summer’s three-week community archaeology dig involved several local schools including Shorne, Cuxton, Meopham, Chantry Primary School in Gravesend,  Cobham Brownies and Higham Youth Club.

KCC Community Archaeologist Andrew Mayfield said: “The excavations at the manor are part of a wider programme of archaeology in the country park, funded by the Heritage Lottery Fund, which has provided a unique opportunity for many local schools and the community to experience archaeology first hand.”

The tile will now be preserved and displayed locally. A second tile found last year is already in Shorne Woods visitor centre at the country park.