A wide waterway integrated into the extensive fen drainage system. {1} Cut in 1586 and enlarged by the gentlemen adventurers in 1631, the Maud Foster drain and sluice were reconstructed in 1734 and improved in 1803. The part of the drain that runs through Skirbeck and Boston is called the Bargate Drain. In the excavation for the sluice at TF 3352 4306, a smith's forge and tools, horse shoes, and other iron objects were found sixteen feet below the surface, giving some indication of the extent of silting. Corporation records of 1568 list properties to be held by a Maude Foster (died 1581) during her life. Tradition asserts that being the owner of the land through which the drain would pass, she gave her consent to the cutting on condition that it bore her name. Nothing is known with certainty. {2}{3}{4}{5}{6} Drainage channel walls, steps and railing built in about 1810 by John Rennie, then altered in the 20th century.The drain walls, steps and railing were constructed of red brick, ashlar gritstone and oak and has brick retaining walls which were renewed in the 20th century. For the full description and the legal address of this listed building please refer to the appropriate List of Buildings of Special Architectural or Historic Interest. {7}