Environmental Resources
Management-Hong Kong Limited (ERM) has been commissioned by Drainage Services
Department to undertake Yuen Long and Kam Tin Sewerage and Sewage Disposal Stage
1, Sewers, Rising Mains and Ancillary Pumping Stations Environmental Impact
Assessment and Traffic Impact Assessment Study (Agreement No. CE31/99)
(hereafter refer to as the Study).
The Study Brief requires that an archaeological survey for cultural
heritage impact assessment be undertaken as part of the EIA study.
In accordance with the Study
Brief, ERM has conducted an archaeological survey within a 150 m corridor
either side of the proposed sewer alignments and pumping stations for
designated, potentially designated and non-designated elements of the Study
(see Figure A). The objective was to gather primary
field data to facilitate the establishment of archaeological potential, vis--vis location, extent, period,
character, condition, significance and quality of buried archaeological
deposits. As appropriate, the
potential impacts to buried archaeology were identified, assessed, and where
possible, with their practicable mitigation measures defined.
This Report presents the findings and recommendations of the above
mentioned archaeological survey for designated, potentially designated and
non-designated elements of the Study.
The remainder of the Annex is
set out as follows:
·
Section
2 describes the methodology and approach adopted in undertaking the
archaeological survey of the study area;
·
Section
3 provides a description of the study area in terms of its topography, geology,
historic and archaeological background;
·
Section
4 presents the findings of the archaeological survey in relation to surface
collection work;
·
Section
5 presents the findings of the archaeological survey in relation to auger
holes;
·
Section
6 presents the findings of the archaeological survey in relation to test pits;
·
Section
7 provides a summary and a set of recommendations arising from the
archaeological survey and the associated archaeological impact assessment; and
· Section 8, as a supplemental and supporting section of the Annex, comprises the finds assessment, augering records and Harrix Matrix of Context. It is recommended that this section be read in parallel with the above.
The
regional scale of the study area requires that a systematic and consistent
approach be applied to the archaeological survey, mainly as the survey findings
will form the basis for the development of an archaeological action plan,
detailing the measures to be adopted to provide appropriate mitigation of the
potential impacts to buried archaeology.
This section describes the survey strategy that have been agreed by AMO
and adopted in undertaking the archaeological survey as part of the
archaeological impact assessment.
The
archaeological survey has been conducted through the development and
implementation of a systematic desktop study, supplemented by subsequent focused
field evaluations of areas of potential.
Whilst no survey strategy can guarantee absolute certainty as to the
presence or otherwise of buried archaeological deposits, the strategy as agreed
with AMO and adopted by the Study Team is likely to provide sufficient
certainty to enable the project design and planning work to accommodate the
preservation (in situ or by record)
of archaeological deposits.
The
archaeological survey has been conducted through the following steps:
·
Review of Available
Information.
A review of available archaeological records and published excavation
reports has been undertaken in respect of the proposed development. Any known areas of archaeological
potential within the study area have been noted and mapped.
·
Consultations with AMO. Relevant AMO officials have been
consulted in respect of the areas to be surveyed and the scope of work to be
covered for revealing preserved archaeological deposits.
·
Field Checks. A programme of field visits has been
undertaken to verify the current status of areas of potential (through
observation, field walking, and limited intrusive sampling) and, where
appropriate, to identify the areas to be further investigated and the sampling
technique/rationale to be applied.
In this connection, a programme of intensive surface collection has been
conducted to: (a) identify and collect typical datable cultural relics exposed
on the ground or cutting section; (b) estimate the extent of cultural deposits;
and (c) field checking of any archaeological remains encroached or being
disturbed by landuse in the recent past.
· Field Evaluations. A programme of structured field evaluations (through auger survey, shovel testing and test pit) has been developed and undertaken, in respect of the best field practice and data capture requirements of AMO, to establish the extent (both horizontal and vertical) of the archaeological potential of the area. In line with the above, all identified finds were washed, labelled and recorded with underlying features. In addition to plans, at least one section of each trench was drawn, temporary benchmarks were recorded and correlated with the Hong Kong Provisional Datum.
The topography
of the study area comprises Kam Tin flood plain, the alluvial terrace at Kam
Tin Valley, Ha Tsuen, Sha Po coastal region, and former shallow bay at Tin Shui
Wai and Nam Sang Wai. This
topography is the result of progressive change since 6,000 years ago, from
coastal areas to existing walled village at Kam Tin Valley and Ha Tsuen
Shi. Once a coastal region, the
study area is considered favourable for inhabitants.
The superficial deposits of the study area is dominated by sandy silt soil, and hill wash debris that had been transported downhill during late Pleistocene and middle Holocene 5,000 to 100,000 years ago. The geological formation of the study area is of the following 3 main types:
· Hang Hau Formation : mud flat deposit comprising shell fragments that has been formed on top of Chek Lap Kok Formation colluvium during Holocene Period. It is commonly found in the seabed of shallow bays such as west Kam Tin, west of Sha Po Tsuen, Tin Shui Wai, Yuen Long, Nam Sang Wai south and Ha Tsuen.
· Fanling Formation : inland alluvial deposit that has been formed during late Pleistocene and early Holocene some 8,000 to 100,000 years ago. It is commonly found in Kam Tin Valley, Kam Tin Road, Ng Ka Tsuen, Leung Uk Tsuen, Wang Toi Shan, and Pang Ka Tsuen.
· Chek Lap Kok Formation : colluvium that has been formed under Hang Hau Formation and Fanling Formation. The formation period of this colluvium is similar to that of organic clays from alluvial terrace at Shan Ha Tsuen dating back 162,89 to 79,000 years before AD1950 ( Fyfe et al 2000). It is found in Kam Sheung Road, Kam Tin and Yuen Long.
After the unification of China in 221 BC, the study area (Ha Tsuen, Yuen Long and Kam Tin) came under the dynastic rule of Chinese emperors. From 226 to 206 BC, the area came under the jurisdiction of Panyu County in the Qing Dynasty. In the Tang Dynasty (AD 736), the area came under the rule of Tunmen Zhen (Tuen Mun military division). Ha Tsuen, Yuen Long and Kam Tin were previously centres for agricultural activities, abounded in salt and pearl cultivation.
3.3.1 Yuen Long
Yuen Long was originally characterised by six rural areas with 140 villages. As an agricultural centre, Yuen Long economy at that time heavily relied on salt production and pearl harvesting. With population increase and advance in transportation, a market town was established and developed in late Ming Dynasty near Yuen Long Tai Kiu Tun. The market was subsequently relocated to Yuen Long Kau Hui during the Qing Dynasty. As Yuen Long economy continued to prosper, an increasing number of people from the north moved south, resulting in continual increase in population of the area.
3.3.2 Kam Tin
Kam Tin was originally named “Chan Tin” (Chan Field) prior to the migration of the Tang Clan to Kam Tin in AD 973. This suggests that Kam Tin might have been dominated by the Chan Clan during AD 950 - 980 before the Tangs. First settled in Hong Kong in AD 973, the Tang ancestors inhabited the south of Kai Kung Leng, an area called “Sham Tin” meaning village in hillslope. As the Tang Clan continued to prosper, they traded in the Chan’s field and renamed the area to “Sham Tin” ( Yao, 1991). Since then, the Tangs dominated by progressively taking over areas in Kam Tin, Yuen Long and Ha Tsuen. Five walled villages have been built in Kam Tin, namely Kat Hing Wai, Wing Lung Wai, Tai Hong Wai, Pak Wai and Nam Wai.
In 1587, Hong Kong came under the administration of Xin’an County and the territory was beset by a severe famine. The Tang Clan, as a result of their fertile land, contributed to the community by donating rice. The Xin’an County magistrate shown his appreciation by renaming the area to “Kam Tin” signifying that it was an ornamental field.
3.3.3 Ha Tsuen
The Ha Tsuen area has a history of more than 1,400 years and was first occupied by the wealthy Tu Clan. During the Song Dynasty (AD 1127 - 1279), advance in transportation (both land and sea) coupled with domestic trade within the area made unprecedented progress. Local people earned their living by farming, fishing and salt production. As the economy grew, an increasing number of people migrated from the north to the south. The Tangs moved in from Kam Tin during the Song Dynasty and they became the most dominant clan. When the Tangs settled in Ha Tsuen in 1370s to 1400s, they established Tseung Kong Wai and Tung Tau Tsuen, which were the two earliest Tang’s villages in the Ha Tsuen area.
In 1661, an Evacuation Order was enforced which moved the coastal population further inland. The order had uprooted the whole coastal community, including those of Ha Tsuen. Although some people returned after the rescinding of the Evacuation Order , the total population of the region was still much lower than before. The Qing Government thus encouraged the Hakka people from Jiangxi, Guangdong and Fujian to move in, resulting in a sharp increase in the Hakka population.
In 1898, the
British formally took possession of the New Territories from Qing government
after the First Anglo-Chinese War with China. According to the survey undertaken by James H. Stewart
Lockhart, the inhabitants in Ha Tsuen, Yuen Long and Kam Tin were mainly
farmers of grain, peanuts, taro, sugar cane and vegetables. Transportation was well developed and
villages were linked by stone paths, enabling travel on foot and by horse.
3.4
Known Archaeological Records
Previously published archaeological records indicate that a number of Bronze Age artefacts (such as double-Fs and net pattern stoneware shards) and two funnel urns of Tang Dynasty have been found in Shek Kong. A lime kiln of Tang Dynasty has also been identified in San Wai of the Ha Tsuen area (outside study area) (Meacham 1979).
In addition to
the above known archaeological resources, a number of archaeological investigations
have been undertaken between 1998 and 1999 to cover the main drainage channels
in Yuen Long and Kam Tin, and area along the whole Kam Tin Road widening
project. To date, Wang Toi Shan,
Ng Ka Tsuen, Shui Lau Tin, Shek Kong, Leung Uk Tsuen, Pat Heung and Ha Tsuen
have been surveyed. Table 3.1 presents the known
archaeological sites within the study area.
Table 3.1 Known archaeological sites within study area
|
Archaeological
Site |
Location
|
Earliest
archaeological deposit discovered |
Description |
|
Pat Heung Sheung Tsuen
Archaeological Site |
Pat Heung East |
Song dynasty |
Song roof tiles, artefacts
and bricks have been identified.
May be a settlement site, pending confirmation by further detailed
survey(s). |
|
Lin Fa Tei Archaeological
Site |
Lin Fa Tei |
Song dynasty or earlier |
Small quantity of Song
dynasty artefacts and a wooden feature have been identified outside the study
area. No settlement feature has
been identified to date. |
|
Shui Lau Tin Archaeological
Site |
Shui Tsan Tin |
Probably Song dynasty |
Several porcelain bowl
shards and roof tiles dated to Song dynasty were collected in previous
survey. Two auger holes have
been undertaken with one piece of blue-and -white porcelain shard
yielded. Topography of the area
may be of archaeological potential. |
|
Tseung Kong Wai So Kwun
Tsai Archaeological Site |
North of San Wai Sewage
Treatment Plant at Ha Tsuen |
Late Neolithic |
A late Neolithic Age
archaeological site has been identified before World War II at a small hill
located half mile from Ha Tsuen.
Status re-confirmed during the Territory Wide Archaeological Survey in
1998 (Au and Mok 1998). |
|
|
|
|
|
No artefacts dated before 1800 have been found in all survey areas except Ha Tsuen.
This area covers Kam Tin Road, Wang Toi Shan and Kam Sheung Road. No artefacts have been identified.
4.2
Kam Tin, Nam Sang Wai and Sha Po (S4 - S6, P3)
This area covers Sewers S4 - S6 and Pumping Station P3. No artefacts have been identified during field walking. This is reinforced by the nil finding of the 1998 archaeological impact assessment undertaken for the construction of the main drainage channels (Au and Mok 1998, Au pers. comm.).
This area is heavily developed, mainly with Castle Peak Road, Pok Oi Hospital and modern low rise residential developments. No artefacts have been identified. It is considered that any artefacts that might survive in this area have been disturbed or destroyed as a result of previous developments.
The study area at Ha Tsuen has been mostly occupied by open storage for containers since 1990s. No archaeological remains have been identified along the proposed sewer alignment except a section of platform 10 metres north of Sewer S8 where there is a stream running to its east.
A layer of pottery shards, earth bricks, grey bricks and roof tiles has been unearthed from the section between 11.8 and 13.8 mPD (Figure B). The platform is 2 to 3 metres above ground level, varying from 2 to 4 metres deep covering approximately 1.2 ha (120 m x 100 m).
According to verbal communication with the villagers, the site was previously occupied by 6 Tang’s families of over 24 people. This site is currently known as “Lan Wai” meaning “damaged walled village”. The original designation remains unknown. It is noted that the Tang ancestors living in Sik Kong Wai had settled in “Lan Wai” some 200 years ago. The Tangs then established a village 400 metres north east of “Lan Wai” mainly due to bad fung shui in Sik Kong Wai.
According to Lands Department’s records, no settlement names have been indicated in the survey maps of 1903, 1936 and 1958. The 1924 aerial photo indicates that the platform was previously an orchard site.
Forty-two auger holes (AH01 - 42) have been bored within the study area and their respective locations are presented in Figures C and D. The purpose of the auger holes was to obtain information on soil profile to facilitate subsequent establishment of archaeological potential of the proposed sewer alignments and pumping stations. Representative augering results are presented in the sections below.
Twelve auger holes (AH01-06, AH30-35) were bored in Ha Tsuen (see Figure E). Of these, two auger holes (AH01-02) were bored at a small hill (23.6 mPD) in Yuen Ling Tsai close to the west end of Sewer S8. Sewer S8 is located 220 metres south of Tseung Kong Wai So Kwun Tsai Archaeological Site. Table 5.1 below presents the augering results for AH02.
Table 5.1 AH02 soil profile
|
Layer |
Soil description |
Cultural Remains |
Depth(cm) |
|
1 |
topsoil, greyish yellow sandy soil |
none |
0-5 |
|
2 |
subsoil, brownish sandy soil, mixed with small amount of weathered
bed rock texture. |
None |
6-15 |
|
3 |
regolith (weathering bed rock) |
none |
below 16cm |
Auger hole AH02 reached 35 cm
below the ground level.
The AH02 soil profile represents typical hill deposit, with layers 1, 2 and 3 corresponding to soil horizon A-B-C. The same soil profile has been found in AH01. No artefacts have been found in both AH01 and AH02, suggesting that there is no cultural remains in the area of concern.
Six auger holes (AH30-35) were bored along the western section of the proposed S8 at 10 m to 25 m intervals. No ancient artifacts or cultural layers were identified. The result from a representative auger hole, AH35 detailed in Table 5.2.
Table 5.2 AH35 soil profile
|
Layer |
Soil description |
Cultural Remains |
Depth(cm) |
|
1 |
light yellow soil |
none |
0-20 |
|
2 |
black mud |
none |
20-110 |
|
3 |
brown silt |
none |
110 -180 |
Four auger holes (AH03-06) were bored at a 10 m interval on the platform where a layer of cultural remains has been identified through field walking (Figure E). The augering suggested that the cultural layer was 15 to 90 cm from the platform surface, and that building materials such as roof tiles have been identified in this layer throughout all auger holes AH03-06 (Figure F). These finds can be dated back to late Ming to mid Qing dynasty. Table 5.3 below presents the augering results for AH04.
Table 5.3 AH04 Soil profile
|
Layer |
Soil Description
|
Cultural Remains
|
Depth(cm) |
|
1 |
grey reddish sandy soil |
none |
0 - 15 |
|
2 |
reddish sandy clay |
roof tiles, pottery |
15 - 60 |
|
3 |
reddish sandy clay |
none |
61 - 90 |
|
4 |
yellowish sandy clay |
none |
91 - 180 |
|
5 |
light yellow sandy clay |
none |
below 180 |
Auger hole AH04 reached 2.3 m
below the platform level.
5.2
Sha Po Pumping Station (P2)
Two auger holes (AH07-08) were bored at Sha Po Pumping Station (P2) (see Figure G). The augering indicates the presence of dark grey sandy soil with organic deposits in layer 3, and sandy soil deposit in layers 1 and 2. Such profile is typical of swamp area and/or fish ponds. Table 5.4 below presents the augering results for AH07.
Table 5.4 AH07 Soil profile
|
Layer |
Soil Description |
Cultural Remains |
Depth(cm) |
|
1 |
yellowish sandy soil |
none |
0-20 |
|
2 |
greyish sandy soil |
none |
21-60 |
|
3 |
dark grey sandy soil, mixed organic deposits |
none |
below 61 |
Auger hole AH07 reached 2 m from ground
level.
The augering result has been further reinforced by historic document records (such as aerial photos and past 1:20,000 survey maps of 1936 and 1958. Review of relevant records indicates that back in 1950s the P2 area was mainly agricultural land. The 1:25,000 maps of 1973 suggests change in landuse of the area to fish ponds. More recent records reveal that the area has been used mainly as open storage for containers in the 1990s. Thus, it is considered that archaeological deposits, if any, had already been destroyed by previous landuse.
5.3
Kam Tin Pumping Station (P1)
Two auger holes (AH09-10) were bored on ground level near Kam Tin Pumping Station (P1) (see Figure G). The location designated for P1 pumping station is currently occupied by a garage (Figure H). Both AH09 and AH10 have similar augering results. Table 5.5 below presents the augering results for AH09.
Table 5.5 AH09 soil profile
|
Layer |
Soil Description
|
Cultural Remains |
Depth(cm) |
|
1 |
filled soil, yellowish sandy soil |
none (modern rubbish) |
10 |
|
2 |
filled soil, yellowish soil |
none (modern rubbish) |
20 |
|
3 |
brown sandy soil |
none |
30 |
|
4 |
grey sandy soil |
none |
140 |
|
5 |
grey sandy soil, mixed with small amount of white coarse sand |
none |
below 141 |
Auger Hole AH09 reached 2.3 m
from the bored surface.
The white coarse sand of Layer 5 is natural alluvial sediment typical of river deposits. The augering therefore suggests that the area has not been inhabited by settlers in the past , and hence its archaeological potential is minimal.
The 1:25,000 maps of 1958 reveal that the area was dray dry agricultural land in the 1960s. The area has been converted into fish pond of at least 2 metres deep in the 1970s (1980 edition of 1:20,000 map) and subsequently been filled to date (1995 edition 1: 20,000 map). It is considered that archaeological remains, if any, had already been destroyed by previous landuse (see Figure H).
5.4
Ng Ka Tsuen Pumping Station (P5)
The Ng Ka Tsuen area has been surveyed in 1999, intensive auger holes (22 holes) and intensive surface collection were undertaken (Liu and Ngan 1999). Four of the auger holes were bored in close vicinity to P5 but no significant human remains were identified. The proposed pumping station site is now a private site, although footpaths are found in the area, all of them is covered with concrete which limited hand auger to be undertaken. One auger hole (AH11), located 60 m to the north west of P5 on a small river terrace near a stream, was bored (Figure G). The associated soil profile reveals that layers 3 to 6 are mainly alluvial sediment (silty soil and coarse sand), indicating that any artefacts identified in P5 are likely to be secondary deposits. Table 5.6 presents the soil profile for auger hole AH11.
Table 5.6 AH11 soil profile
|
Layer |
Soil Description |
Cultural Remains |
Depth (cm) |
|
1 |
Topsoil, brownish grey sandy soil |
none |
0-20 |
|
2 |
Subsoil, light brown sandy soil |
none |
21-40 |
|
3 |
brown silty soil |
none |
41-60 |
|
4 |
Reddish brown silty soil |
|
61-130 |
|
5 |
yellow silty soil |
none |
131-200 |
|
6 |
yellow coarse sand |
none |
below
201 |
Auger Hole AH11 reached 2.3 m
below ground.
The soil profile indicated that layers 3 to 6 are alluvial sediment (silty soil and coarse sand) which is next to a river stream. Therefore, it is regarded as secondary deposit.
With reference to the auger hole result, it is likely that the soil deposit of P5 is secondary deposit. However, in this stage of the study, since P5 is occupied by private lots, no test pits could be undertaken. Although there are some foot paths between individual lots, they are covered with concrete and probably with public facilities underneath (e.g. electric cables). No further fieldwork is possible within P5 at this stage.
13 auger holes (AH12-16, 20-27) were bored along Kam Sheung Road (see Figure C for location). No artefacts have been found in all auger holes except AH15 in Yuen Kong which is located some 60 m south west of Yuen Kong Tsuen next to Kam Sheung Road. One piece of blue and white porcelain shard, dating back to 1870s to 1920, has been unearthed (see Figure I). Since Yuen Kong Tsuen was established before 18th century in Qing dynasty, it is considered that the vicinity of AH15 may have archaeological potential. All the auger holes are alluvial deposits, hence only AH13-15 are selected for presentation as below.
Both AH13 and AH15 are located at Kam Sheung Road. The augering results indicate that the area along Kam Sheung Road is covered with typical alluvial sediment. The respective soil profile as shown in Tables 5.7 and 5.8, can be divided into 2 main parts. The upper part was recent deposit of sandy soil whereas the lower part was fine to coarse sand. The latter represents sedimentary deposit which has been formed in the last glacial period.
Table 5.7 AH13 Soil profile
|
Layer |
Soil Description |
Cultural Remains |
Depth (cm) |
|
1 |
Topsoil, grey sandy soil |
none |
0-10 |
|
2 |
subsoil, yellowish grey sandy soil |
none |
11-30 |
|
3 |
light yellow silty soil |
none |
31-80 |
|
4 |
grey fine sand, grain size 0.01-0.05 mm |
none |
81-210 |
|
5 |
grey coarse sand, grain size 0.05-2 mm |
none |
210-230 |
Table 5.8 AH15 soil profile
|
Layer |
Soil Description |
Cultural Remains |
Depth (cm) |
|
1 |
Topsoil, dark grey sandy soil. |
1870s - 1920s blue-and- white porcelain shard commonly found in
villages of Hong Kong |
0-10 |
|
2 |
subsoil, dark grey sandy soil |
none |
11-20 |
|
3 |
yellowish sandy soil |
none |
below 21 |
No artefacts have been identified either by field walking or subsequent auger holes. This is reinforced by previous intensive archaeological investigations undertaken for the Kam Tin main drainage channel, Kam Tin Road and Wang Toi Shan. It is considered that the area is of no archaeological potential with the exception at the vicinity of AH15. Further investigation would be conducted to vertify its heritage value.
5.6
Shui Tsan Tin Pumping Station (P4)
Three auger holes (AH17-19) were bored at Pumping Station P4 (see Figure G). The respective results are presented in Section 8.2.
5.7
Sewers S1, S2 and Pang Ka Tsuen Pumping Station (P6)
Previous archaeological investigations were undertaken for the main drainage channels for Yuen Long and Kam Tin, as well as Kam Tin road improvement works. It has been suggested that no augering and test pit excavation would be deemed necessary given nil archaeological potential of the area concerned in respect of Sewers S1, S2 and Pang Ka Tsuen Pumping Station (P6). To verify the archaeological status in P6, two auger holes (AH28-29) were bored at P6 (see Figure G). Augering result reinforces nil archaeological potential of the area. Table 5.9 presents the soil profile for auger hole AH28.
Table 5.9 AH28 soil profile
|
Layer |
Soil Description |
Cultural Remains |
Depth (cm) |
|
1 |
grey silty soil |
none |
0-20 |
|
2 |
brownish silty soil |
none |
21-200 |
|
3 |
yellow fine sand |
none |
201-245 |
Although no archaeological deposit is identified from AH28 and AH29, recent archaeological investigations (approximately 500m from P6) identified Bronze age archaeological remains which may suggest that archaeological potential at P6 exists.
5.8
Leung Uk Tsuen Pumping Station (P7)
The Pumping Station P7 area has been covered by previous archaeological investigations undertaken for Kam Tin Road Widening Project. Given nil archaeological potential of the area concerned, it is considered that no further auger hole is deemed necessary.
Six auger holes (AH36-42) were bored at 20 m to 50 m intervals (depending on the site condition) along the Kam Tin Road (see Figure C). No artifacts or cultural layers were uncovered in these holes, indicating that there is no archaeological potential. The detail soil profile of the auger holes are presented in Section 8.2.
A total of 4 test pits have been conducted, including:
· TP1 (0.6m x 0.6m) - Proposed sewer S8 in Lan Wai, Ha Tsuen;
· TP2 (1m x 1.5m) - Proposed pumping station P2 in Sha Po;
· TP3 (1m x 1.5m) - Proposed pumping station P4 in Shui Tsan Tin; &
· TP4 (1m x 1.5m) - Proposed pumping station P4 in Shui Tsan Tin.
The location, cross-sectional view and context of TP1 are presented in Figures E, F J and K, and Table 6.1, respectively.
Table 6.1 TP1 context
|
Context
|
Level(mPD)
|
Soil Description |
Cultural Remains |
|
1 |
13.1 |
reddish sandy clay |
none |
|
2 |
12.95 |
reddish sandy clay |
root tiles, stoneware, porcelain shards |
|
3 |
12.45 |
reddish sandy clay |
none |
TP1 reached 12.5 mPD.
A considerable amount of roof tiles, stoneware and pottery shards has been identified in Context 2 at a level of 12.95 mPD (see Figure . The depth of the layer is 15 - 90 cm from the platform ground (13.1 mPD) covering approximately 1.2 ha (120 m x 100 m). This implies the existence of a sealed cultural horizon. With reference to its texture and characteristics, these cultural relics is probably 16th to early 19th century.
It is acknowledged that Lan Wai was abandoned after the Sik Kong Wai and Sik Kong Tsuen were established in early 19th century. According to the 1819 Xin’an County Gazetteer, Sik Kong Wai and Sik Kong Tsuen have been recorded. Dating backwards, these two villages have not been recorded in the 1688 edition of the Gazetteer. This together with the above archaeological findings suggest that Lan Wai was established between 16th to early 19th Century (ie from mid Ming to Qing Dynasty).
The context and
cross-sectional view of TP2 are presented in Table 6.2, and Figures G, J
and K, respectively.
Table 6.2 TP2 context
|
Context |
Level (mPD) |
Soil Description |
Cultural remains |
|
|
1 |
3.98 |
filled soil, dark grey |
modern rubbish, dating to 1970s |
|
|
2 |
3.74 |
filled yellowish sandy soil |
modern rubbish, dating to 1970s |
|
|
3 |
3.54 |
grey clay |
modern rubbish, dating to 1970s |
|
|
4 |
3.42 |
light grey sandy soil, mixed with organic deposits, up most is iron
pan |
none |
|
|
5 |
3.30 |
dark blue grey silty soil |
none |
|
|
6 |
1.42 |
brownish grey bog |
none |
|
|
7 |
1.30 |
light grey fine sandy soil |
none |
|
TP2 reached 1.1 mPD.
The deposit of TP2 can be divided into 2 main types: human (anthropic) soil deposit and natural soil sediment. Context 1 to 3 comprise dumped soil and waste materials (including bottles and cans) dating back to 1970s. Context 4 to 6 comprise mainly fish pond deposits (grey silt) and agricultural soil deposits. Context 7 is natural alluvial deposit with fine sandy soil.
Having regard to the above, and reinforced by augering and historic documents (such as maps and aerial photos), landuse of the site has changed from agricultural in 1950s to fish ponds in 1970s and subsequently being filled for open storage in 1990s. Such a dramatic change in landuse could destroy the archaeological deposits, if any. Thus it is considered that the site has no archaeological potential.
TP3 is located 40 metres north of Shui Tsan Tin pumping station (P4) and falls within the Shui Lau Tin archaeological site (see Figure G). The context and cross-sectional view of TP3 are presented in Table 6.3, and Figure J and K, respectively.
Table 6.3 TP3 Context
|
Context
|
Level (mPD) |
Soil Description |
Cultural Remains |
|
1 |
14.55 |
Topsoil, dark grey sandy soil |
none |
|
2 |
14.39 |
light yellowish grey sandy soil |
Qing dynasty blue-and white porcelain |
|
3 |
14.27 |
yellow sandy soil, iron pan in the middle of this context |
Song dynasty celadon porcelain bowl bottom shard |
|
4 |
14.11 |
grey silty soil, alluvial deposit |
Song
dynasty celadon shards, yellowish, dark brown glaze stoneware pot shards and
a broken blue brick. |
|
5 |
13.97 |
light grey silty soil, alluvial deposit |
none |
|
6 |
13.83 |
grey silty soil, alluvial deposit, water table. |
None |
TP3 reached 13.39 mPD.
Two cultural layers have been identified in TP3: the upper Qing Dynasty (AD 1644-1911) deposits in Context 2, and the lower Song dynasty (AD 960-1279) deposits in Context 3. A broken light grey brick with features typical of mid Ming Dynasty has been found. It is acknowledged that buildings in early Song Dynasty were usually built with rammed earth wall or earth bricks with wood columns supporting the roof (The Estate Bureau of Guangzhou City 1991). However, grey silty soil of Context 3 to 6, as typical alluvial sediment, suggests that any remains is likely to be re-deposited from the upper context. The drawings and photos of the finds are shown in Figure L and M.
TP4 is located 30 metres east of TP3 (see Figure G). The context and cross-sectional view of TP3 are presented in Table 6.4, and Figure J and K, respectively.
Table 6.4 TP4 Context
|
Context |
Level(mPD)
|
Soil Description
|
Cultural Remains |
|
1 |
12.25 |
dark grey sandy soil |
none |
|
2 |
12.20 |
light yellow sandy soil |
none |
|
3 |
12.15 |
light grey yellow sandy soil, upper section is the iron pan. |
roof tiles, village stoneware shards, dated to late Ming dynasty to
late Qing dynasty |
|
4 |
12.09 |
light grey mottled brown with brown silty soil |
coarse ware shards, dating to Neolithic Age (3500 years ago) |
|
5 |
11.25 |
grey silty soil |
none |
TP4 reached 11.03 mPD.
An iron pan (hardpan) has been identified in the upper section of Context 4. It is believed that this iron pan has been formed by persistent paddy farming cementation (Grant 1986). The deposits that have been found in Context 3 should therefore be regarded as remains from farming activities. Brown glaze stoneware shards and roof tiles without fine cloth impression dating back to the late Ming dynasty to Qing dynasty have been unearthed. Two pieces of very small Neolithic coarse ware shards have also been identified in Context 4 (see Figure I). Given their water-weathered features, it is believed that the Neolithic coarse ware shards could have been deposited from elsewhere.
The study area, within which the sewer alignment and pumping stations are to be located, has no known archaeological sites that are to be directly impacted by the proposed development.
In order that unknown sites of archaeological significance were identified, an archaeological survey was undertaken. This survey identified five areas potential archaeological interest:
· Shui Tsan Tin near pumping station P4,
· Ng Ka Tsuen pumping station P5,
· a section of S3 in proximity to AH15 near Yuen Kong Tsuen at Kam Sheung Road,
· Pang Ka Tsuen pumping station P6,
· Lan Wai platform at Ha Tsuen.
The first four areas as listed above may be potentially impacted by activities associated with the construction, permanent landtake and operation of the proposed development. However, based on the latest available information gathered from the programme of field evaluations, the potential archaeological impact associated with the proposed project is not expected to be significant and is amenable to mitigation measures outlined in Section 7.2. No residual impact of major concern is expected.
After land resumption but before the construction work takes place for the proposed Shui Tsan Tin pumping station (P4), Ng Ka Tsuen pumping station (P5), Pang Ka Tsuen pumping station (P6) and a section of S3 in proximity to AH15 near Yuen Kong Tsuen at Kam Sheung Road, a period of 6 months for each of the proposed facilities should be allowed for an archaeological investigation. The method will be agreed with the AMO before the work is undertaken. It is recommended to divide the survey into two phases. In the first phase, 6 test pits with dimensions 1 m x 1.5 m (2 test pits for each site) will be progressed to assess if archaeological deposits exist and their possible extent. If no archaeological interest is identified, no further action will be required. If highly significant archaeological deposits are identified, then, the designs of S3, P4, P5 and P6 should be reviewed with the aim of the preservation in situ of the archaeological materials or alternative feasible sites for S3, P4, P5 and P6 may be sought. If the alternatives are considered not to be practical, rescue excavation of highly significant archaeological deposits should be regarded as the last resort, to preserve the archaeological deposit by record. The AMO should be consulted regarding the results of the investigations and the proposed mitigation measures.
The recommendation for P4, P5 and P6 should be stipulated as a condition in the Environmental Permit for the Designated and Potentially Designated Elements of the EIA study, and the recommendation for a section of S3 at Kam Sheung Road near Yuen Kong Tsuen should be included in the Non-Designated Elements of the Environmental Study. The responsible archaeologist should obtain a Licence from the Authority under the provision of Antiquities and Monuments Ordinance (Cap. 53) before undertaking any archaeological fieldwork for the investigation.
The Lan Wai Platform will not be impacted by the proposed development, therefore, no mitigation measure is required.
The finds that have been found during the archaeological survey cover the following periods:
· Neolithic coarse ware shards dating back about 3,500 years ago;
· Late Tang Dynasty green glaze stoneware;
· Mid Ming Dynasty earth bricks;
· Song Dynasty (AD 960-1279) celadon shards, glazed stoneware shards, roof tiles; and
· Qing Dynasty (AD 1644-1911) stoneware shards, and blue-and-white porcelain shards.
Table 8.1 presents the finds assessment.
Table 8.1 Finds assessment (see Figure I, K, L, M and N)
|
Test Pit |
Context |
Code No. |
Period |
Description |
|
SC at Lan Wai |
---- |
P001 |
18th century |
Porcelain bowl, inverted conical shape, rim diameter 13 cm, with foot
ring, rough pattern, it is mass-production and low price village ware. |
|
SC at Lan Wai |
---- |
P002 |
late 17th to 18th century |
A bottom of broken bowl but shaped and recycle as either a cover of pot
or a small dish, light green glaze interior and exterior bottom. Diameter:
8.2 cm. |
|
SC at Lan Wai |
---- |
P003 |
late 17th to 18th
century |
A pot rim with handle ear, rim diameter 9 cm, brown glaze stoneware |
|
TP1 at Lan Wai |
C.2 |
P001 |
17th century |
Grey roof tile, without cloth impressions, it is the edge of tile.
Thickness 12 mm. |
|
TP1 at Lan Wai |
C2 |
P002 |
18th century |
black glaze pot shard |
|
TP1 at Lan Wai |
C2 |
P003 |
17th century to 18th century |
A milky colour roof tile, with cloth impression, thickness 8 mm.
Common local roof tile |
|
TP3 at Shui Tsan Tan |
C2 |
P001 |
17th to 18th
century |
A small stoneware cup shard, brown glaze interior with foot ring. Rim
diameter approximately 6 cm. |
|
TP3 at Shui Tsan Tan |
C2 |
P002 |
late 17th to
18th century |
A bowl stoneware foot ring, no glaze. |
|
TP3 at Shui Tsan Tan |
C2 |
P003 |
18th to 19th century |
A rim fragment of porcelain bowl, printed with rough pattern, cover with
light greyish blue glaze. |
|
TP3 at Shui Tsan Tan |
C3 |
P001 |
9th to 10th
century |
A stoneware grey roof tile with fine cloth impression, thickness 1
cm. |
|
TP3 at Shui Tsan Tan |
C3 |
P002 |
8th to 11th
century (Song dynasty) |
A body shard of pale green glaze bowl, under glaze with incised
pattern. |
|
TP3 at Shui Tsan Tan |
C4 |
P001 |
8th to 10th
century (Song dynasty) |
A green glaze bowl bottom with foot ring. Diameter 5.5 cm. |
|
TP3 at Shui Tsan Tan |
C4 |
P002 |
9th to 10th
century (Northern Song dynasty) |
A shard of pot bottom with dish base, part of body. Coated with cracked green glaze, Guangdong
Coastal Green Glaze Ware commonly found in Tang dynasty cultural of other
Tang dynasty archaeological sites. . |
|
TP3 at Shui Tsan Tan |
C4 |
P003 |
9th to 14th
century (Song to Ming dynasty) |
Roof tiles with fine cloth impression, thickness 9-10 mm. The upper
part coated with dark brown glaze. |
|
TP3 at Shui Tsan Tan |
C4 |
P004 |
17th to 18th century (late Ming to early Qing
dynasty) |
Light grey brick, broken, thickness 5.8 cm (thicker than Song dynasty
bricks identified in T1 at Pak Heung, Kam Tin which is 3.8 cm (Liu and Ngan
1999) |
|
TP4 at Shui Tsan Tan |
C3 |
P001 |
17th to early 18th century (late Ming and early
Qing) |
Roof tiles, orange colour, with fine cloth impression. |
|
TP4 at Shui Tsan Tan |
C3 |
P002 |
17th to 19th
century |
A rim shard of grind basin, stoneware, no glaze. |
|
TP4 at Shui Tsan Tan |
C4 |
P001 |
at least 3, 500 years ago, Neolithic Age |
A shard of coarse ware made with quartz coarse sand, the inter part
of the ware is black. No
decoration . |
|
TP4
at Shui Tsan Tan |
C4 |
P002 |
at least 3, 500 years ago, Neolithic Age |
A shard of coarse ware made with quartz coarse sand. The inter part of the ware is
black. No decoration.. |
Note: SC = surface collection
Table 8.2 presents the auger holes record.
Table 8.2 Auger holes record
|
Hole No. |
Soil Layer |
Soil Description |
Cultural Remains |
Depth(cm) |
|
AH01 |
1 |
yellowish soil, A Horizon |
none |
5 |
|
|
2 |
brown yellowish sandy soil, B Horizon. |
none |
10 |
|
|
3 |
yellowish sandy soil, mixed with weathering bed rock texture, C
Horizon |
none |
over 15 |
|
AH02 |
1 |
greyish yellow sandy soil, A Horizon |
none |
5 |
|
|
2 |
brownish sandy soil, B Horizon |
none |
10 |
|
|
3 |
regolith, yellowish sandy soil, C Horizon |
none |
over 30 |
|
AH03 |
1 |
grey reddish sandy soil |
none |
10 |
|
|
2 |
reddish sandy clay |
roof tile fragment, dated to 16th to 18th
century |
90 |
|
|
3 |
yellowish sandy clay |
none |
190 |
|
|
4 |
light reddish sandy soil |
none |
over 110 |
|
AH04 |
1 |
grey reddish sandy soil |
none |
15 |
|
|
2 |
reddish sandy clay |
roof tile fragment,
dated to 16th to 18th century |
50 |
|
AH04 |
3 |
reddish sandy clay |
none |
25 |
|
|
4 |
yellowish sandy clay |
none |
90 |
|
|
5 |
light yellow sandy clay |
none |
over 50 |
|
AH05 |
1 |
greyish reddish sandy soil |
none |
10 |
|
|
2 |
reddish sandy soil |
Root tile fragment, pottery shards, dated to 17th century
to 18th century |
60 |
|
|
3 |
yellowish sandy clay |
none |
140 |
|
|
4 |
light yellowish sandy soil |
none |
over 30 |
|
AH06 |
1 |
grey reddish sandy soil |
none |
10 |
|
|
2 |
reddish sandy clay |
Root tile fragment, dated to 17th century to 18th
century |
80 |
|
|
3 |
yellowish sandy clay |
none |
200 |
|
|
4 |
light yellow sandy soil |
none |
over 30 |
|
AH07 |
1 |
yellowish sandy soil |
none |
20 |
|
|
2 |
greyish sandy soil |
none |
45 |
|
|
3 |
dark grey sandy soil mixed organic deposit |
none |
over 70 |
|
AH08 |
1 |
yellowish sandy soil |
none |
30 |
|
|
2 |
greyish sandy soil |
none |
40 |
|
|
3 |
light yellowish sandy soil |
none |
97 |
|
|
4 |
light yellowish coarse sandy soil |
none |
over 41 |
|
AH09 |
1 |
filled soil, yellowish sandy soil |
none ( modern rubbish) |
10 |
|
|
2 |
filled soil, yellowish soil |
none ( modern rubbish) |
20 |
|
|
3 |
brown sandy soil |
none |
30 |
|
|
4 |
grey sandy soil |
none |
140 |
|
|
5 |
grey sandy soil, mixed with small amount of white coarse sand |
none |
over 30 |
|
AH10 |
1 |
filled soil, brown sandy soil |
none |
20 |
|
|
2 |
filled soil, dark brown sandy soil |
none |
20 |
|
|
3 |
brownish grey sandy soil |
none |
20 |
|
|
4 |
brownish grey silty soil |
none |
30 |
|
|
5 |
grey silty soil |
none |
70 |
|
AH11 |
1 |
brownish grey sandy soil |
none |
20 |
|
|
2 |
light brown sandy soil |
none |
20 |
|
|
3 |
brown silt soil |
none |
20 |
|
|
4 |
reddish brown silty soil |
none |
70 |
|
|
5 |
yellow silty soil |
none |
70 |
|
|
6 |
yellow coarse sand |
none |
over 20 |
|
AH12 |
1 |
grey sandy soil |
none |
20 |
|
|
2 |
greyish yellow sandy soil |
none |
10 |
|
|
3 |
yellow sandy soil, mottled with red bed rock texture |
none |
over 50 |
|
AH13 |
1 |
sandy soil |
none |
20 |
|
|
2 |
fine sandy soil |
none |
29 |
|
|
3 |
light yellowish silty soil mottled reddish mineral deposit(iron pan
?) |
none |
over 82 |
|
AH14 |
1 |
grey sandy soil |
none |
10 |
|
|
2 |
yellowish sandy soil |
none |
15 |
|
|
3 |
brown yellow sandy soil, (alluvial deposit) |
none |
over 25 |
|
AH15 |
1 |
dark grey sandy soil |
1870s to 1920s blue-and white porcelain bowl shard |
10 |
|
|
2 |
dark grey sandy soil |
none |
10 |
|
|
3 |
yellowish sandy soil, (alluvial deposit)(water table) |
none |
over 124 |
|
AH16 |
1 |
grey sandy soil |
none |
10 |
|
|
2 |
pale grey silty soil |
none |
15 |
|
|
3 |
light grey silty- sand soil (water table) |
none |
over 180 |
|
AH17 |
1 |
yellow sandy soil |
none |
20 |
|
|
2 |
light yellowish sandy soil |
none |
30 |
|
|
3 |
light grey silty sandy soil (alluvial deposit) (water table) |
none |
50 |
|
|
4 |
grey clay (alluvial deposit) |
none |
over 138 |
|
AH18 |
1 |
yellowish sandy soil |
none |
30 |
|
|
2 |
light yellowish sandy soil |
none |
100 |
|
|
3 |
pale yellow silty soil |
none |
90 |
|
|
4 |
grey clay(alluvial deposit) |
none |
over 20 |
|
AH19 |
1 |
dark grey sandy soil |
none |
10 |
|
|
2 |
pale grey sandy soil |
none |
20 |
|
|
3 |
grey silty soil (alluvial deposit) (water table) |
none |
10 |
|
AH20 |
1 |
dark grey fine sandy soil |
none(modern rubbish) |
20 |
|
|
2 |
light grey to yellow silty soil |
none |
20 |
|
|
3 |
yellow silty-clay |
none |
90 |
|
|
4 |
grey coarse sand (alluvial deposit) |
none |
over 20 |
|
AH21 |
1 |
dark brown sandy soil, mixed with great deal of humus |
none |
5 |
|
|
2 |
grey, silty sand |
none |
11 |
|
|
3 |
yellowish grey, silty soil |
none |
84 |
|
|
4 |
pale yellowish silty soil |
none |
over 21 |
|
AH22 |
1 |
grey sandy soil |
none |
10 |
|
|
2 |
yellowish grey sandy soil |
none |
20 |
|
|
3 |
pale yellow silty soil |
none |
50 |
|
|
4 |
grey fine sand, grain size 0.01-0.05 mm (river deposit) |
none |
130 |
|
|
5 |
pale grey coarse sand, grain size varying 0.05 to 2 mm (river
deposit) |
none |
over 20 |
|
AH23 |
1 |
light grey sandy soil |
none |
20 |
|
|
2 |
yellow silty soil |
none |
20 |
|
|
3 |
greyish yellow sandy-silty soil |
none |
40 |
|
|
4 |
yellow, sandy soil, |
none |
40 |
|
|
5 |
pale yellow sandy soil, grain
size 0.05-1 mm(river deposit) |
none |
30 |
|
|
6 |
grey sand, grain size 0.05-2 mm sand grain size 0.05-1 mm(river
deposit) |
none |
over 30 |
|
AH24 |
1 |
dark grey sandy soil |
none |
20 |
|
|
2 |
grey sandy soil |
none |
40 |
|
|
3 |
yellow sand(river deposit) |
none |
25 |
|
|
4 |
grey sand(river deposit) |
none |
over 15 |
|
AH25 |
1 |
light yellowish sandy soil |
none |
20 |
|
|
2 |
yellow sandy soil |
none |
20 |
|
|
3 |
grey sand |
none |
10 |
|
|
4 |
pale yellow silty soil |
none |
30 |
|
|
5 |
yellow-reddish silty soil |
none |
over 45 |
|
AH26 |
1 |
dark grey sandy soil |
none |
15 |
|
|
2 |
greyish yellow sandy soil |
none |
25 |
|
|
3 |
yellow silty soil |
none |
71 |
|
AH27 |
1 |
filled soil, yellow soil |
none(modern rubbish) |
85 |
|
|
2 |
filled soil, dark yellow soil |
none |
over 45 |
|
AH28 |
1 |
grey silty soil |
none |
20 |
|
|
2 |
brown silty soil |
none |
180 |
|
|
3 |
yellow fine sand, grain size 0.01-0.03 mm (river deposit) |
none |
over 30 |
|
AH29 |
1 |
grey silty soil |
none |
15 |
|
|
2 |
brownish sandy soil |
none |
114 |
|
|
3 |
brown silty soil |
none |
over 30 |
|
AH30 |
1 |
filled yellow soil |
none |
50 |
|
|
2 |
filled brown soil |
none |
60 and below |
|
AH31 |
1 |
light grey top soil |
none |
15 |
|
|
2 |
filled brown coarse sandy soil |
none |
60 |
|
|
3 |
filled coarse sandy soil with gravel |
none |
240 |
|
|
4 |
black mud |
none |
240 and below |
|
AH32 |
1 |
light brown sandy soil |
none |
40 |
|
|
2 |
filled brown coarse sandy soil |
none |
80 and below |
|
AH33 |
1 |
light brown sandy soil |
none |
30 |
|
|
2 |
filled soil |
none |
80 |
|
AH34 |
1 |
light brown |
none |
10 |
|
|
2 |
brown soil |
none |
30 |
|
|
3 |
light brown sandy soil |
none |
50 |
|
|
4 |
light yellow loam |
none |
150 |
|
|
5 |
black mud |
none |
200 |
|
AH35 |
1 |
light yellow soil |
none |
20 |
|
|
2 |
black mud. |
none |
110 |
|
|
3 |
light brown silty soil |
none |
150 |
|
AH36 |
1 |
topsoil |
none |
10 |
|
|
2 |
light yellow sandy soil |
none |
30 |
|
|
3 |
yellow sandy soil |
none |
55 |
|
|
4 |
yellow weathering bed rock soil |
none |
80 |
|
AH37 |
1 |
light yellow sandy soil |
none |
10 |
|
|
2 |
light yellow sandy soil |
none |
30 |
|
|
3 |
yellow sandy soil |
none |
65 |
|
|
4 |
yellow weathering bed rock soil |
none |
200 |
|
AH38 |
1 |
light yellow sandy soil |
none |
25 |
|
|
2 |
brown sandy soil |
none |
60 |
|
|
3 |
dark brown silt soil |
none |
90 |
|
|
4 |
light grey coarse sand with gravel |
none |
130 |
|
AH39 |
1 |
light grey sandy soil |
none |
15 |
|
|
2 |
brown sandy soil |
none |
45 |
|
|
3 |
dark
brown sandy soil |
none |
65 |
|
|
4 |
light yellow sandy soil |
none |
100 |
|
AH40 |
1 |
light grey top soil |
none |
15 |
|
|
2 |
light brown sandy soil |
none |
30 |
|
|
3 |
light yellow sandy soil |
none |
90 |
|
AH41 |
1 |
light grey topsoil |
none |
15 |
|
|
2 |
light
brown sandy soil |
none |
40 |
|
|
3 |
light yellow coarse sandy soil |
none |
70 |
|
AH42 |
1 |
dark grey sandy soil |
none |
10 |
|
|
2 |
grey silt |
none |
30 |
|
|
3 |
yellow loam |
none |
70 |
The Harrix Matrix of Context is presented in Figure P.