The excavation at Calis Corner in Kimpton, which began in 1966, was a significant archaeological discovery that owed much to the landowner, William Flambert. His interest in archaeology led him to notice a field where the plow had repeatedly hit compacted flints, prompting him to invite the Andover Archaeological Society (AAS) to conduct a study.
At the time, the AAS was led by Max Dacre, who initially had one month to complete the research before fall plowing began. The work was carried out on weekends with volunteers, and it soon became evident that the site deserved more extensive investigation. The deadline was gradually extended until the excavation was completed in 1970. Thorough scientific excavations garnered recognition for the AAS within the archaeological community, and the results were published in the Proceedings of the Prehistoric Society in 1981.
The excavation at Calis Corner uncovered a Bronze Age cremation cemetery that had been in use for a remarkable 1,500 years, with earlier Late Neolithic activity preceding it. Located near Wessex Neolithic henge monuments like Woodhenge and Durrington Walls, and along the Harrow Way prehistoric road connecting Wessex and Kent, Calis Corner held a significant place in the Bronze Age mortuary landscape. It's situated near the Kimpton Mound Cemetery, and it's suggested that these two sites were part of a broader ceremonial landscape during the Bronze Age.
The archaeological evidence revealed that Neolithic activity initially centered around three large sarsen stones, potentially natural formations. In the Early Bronze Age (2000-1500 BC), cremation burials were placed in deep pits. Subsequently, a circle of small sarsen stones was erected on a flint platform, along with a fire platform for cremations and 22 urns covered with flint shells (only six of which contained cremated remains).
During the Middle and Late Bronze Age (1500 - 600 BC), the site experienced the most significant activity. A large flint platform was constructed, and cremation burials were inserted into it. This platform underwent four extensions, and various types and phases of burials were identified. For example, changes in the presence or absence of flint kirps over burials during this period may reflect shifts in funerary practices.
The site displayed five distinct clusters of burials, possibly representing family groups. The range of ages and genders represented, along with the scarcity of associated artifacts, suggested a relatively egalitarian community with no pronounced social hierarchy.
Notably, the site was used continuously over a long period of time. The consistent methods of burning and crushing bones, as well as the techniques used for platform construction and the reuse of fire sites, provide insights into the enduring traditions and practices of the community that occupied Calis Corner throughout its extensive history.