Fragments of War

A collection of charred ceramic fragments are a reminder of the ravages of war waged on Taranaki soil. These broken and burned shards were found during an archaeological excavation in June 2005 from the Street homestead site in Bell Block, which was burned on 26 October 1860 during the First Taranaki War.

The Streets were among the many settlers forced to abandon their homes during the war, leaving them vulnerable to destruction and looting. The burning of the Street homestead, which is now part of Penrod Drive, was witnessed by those stationed at the Bell Block Stockade, but they were powerless to stop it.

Despite later cleanup efforts much domestic rubble remained and the recent excavation discovered a wealth of artefacts. According to the report produced by the Geometria team, led by Dr Hans-Dieter Bader, the finds highlight “the exploits, achievements and living conditions of the labouring class of British emigrant, an otherwise quiet cohort in the historical record.” A selection of this material, including teapots, bottles, ceramics and glassware is now cared for at Puke Ariki.