Page:VCH Sussex 1.djvu/542

A HISTORY OF SUSSEX barrow-like mounds ; whilst between the camp and the western work is another similar mound ; still another is outside the western work. All these works, which are represented on the accompanying key-plan, are believed to be parts of the original arrangements for the defence of the camp and were intended also to cover communication with the water supply, which was a spring issuing forth at the foot of the hill about a quarter of a mile to the north-east of the camp. There is also a large hole to the south of the camp which may have been constructed as a reservoir for such rainwater as might be collected from the surface. Its position at the junction of two coombs suggests that this was its original purpose, but from certain remains found and after a deliberate examination of the site General Pitt-Rivers came to the conclusion that a regular well had been dug there, probably by the Romans. It is quite possible that there may have been a rainwater dish or tank here in neolithic times, to which period, it can hardly be doubted, this interesting camp and its outworks belong. Chanctonbury Ring, to be properly understood, should be studied in connection with Mount Caburn and Wolstanbury Camp, with which it has several obvious points of similarity. As a post for observation and perhaps signalling it is as important as, if not more so than. Mount Caburn. It is, perhaps, the most conspicuous and prominent landmark of Sussex. There are few parts of the Wealden district of the county from which it is not visible. The characteristic group of dark foliaged trees, mainly beeches and firs, by which the height is crowned obscures, unfortunately, the chief part of the central oval earthwork, and it is to be feared that a considerable amount of dis- turbance and damage has been caused by the ramification of their roots in the soil. Unfortunately, too, the trees cut off much of what would otherwise be a very remarkable and extensive view from the ramparts of the camp. Cissbury, High Down Camp, the Devil's Dyke and White Hawk Camp are all clearly visible from Chanctonbury Ring. There can be no question that in prehistoric times this was one of the most important look-out points in the south-east of England. Cissbury. — This earthwork occupies the top of an important hil) practically midway between the sea-coast and the northern edge of the South Downs. Although the view from this eminence does not com- mand a very extensive range of country, it is clearly visible from High Down Camp and Chanctonbury Ring, thus forming an important con- necting link between the Weald and the sea-coast. Beyond this, Cissbury is remarkable as affording evidences of ancient flint-mining, the manufacture of implements, and for its large size, the strength of its defensive works, and the indications of its hav- ing been continuously occupied for a long period of time. General Pitt-Rivers has described it as the principal stronghold of Sussex. The formidable character of its ramparts is clearly visible from Worthing, but its size and strategic strength are only fully realized 464