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Thanks once again to Sue Brooke for compiling next month’s Diary Dates.
The following events will be taking place next month, why not add one or two to your diary and join in the fun?
CORNWALL
Cornwall Archaeological Society, Regular walks and talks of interest:
The Society was formed in 1961 – it grew out of the West Cornwall Field Club, itself founded in 1935 by a group of enthusiasts who were studying the archaeology of West Cornwall.
Walks - Every month there is an archaeological walk somewhere in Cornwall led by members or an invited expert.
Talks – During winter months talks are given at centres in Truro and Liskeard by speakers, national and local (and including members) who are specialists in their field of interest.
Activities - The Society gives opportunities for those interested in practical archaeology to participate in fieldwork and learn archaeological techniques. Members often take part in excavations run by the Cornwall County Council’s Historic Environment Service (HES). See http://www.cornisharchaeology.org.uk/ for more details.
Cornish Ancient Sites Protection Network
‘A charitable partnership formed to look after the ancient sites and monuments of Cornwall, currently working closely with local communities and official organisations to protect and promote our ancient heritage landscape through research, education and outreach activities’.
Volunteers are always very welcome at the monthly clear-ups. These events are a really good opportunity to get a bit more hands-on whilst helping to clear an ancient site in the landscape. This not only allows for physical preservation of the site itself but helps it to be kept safe for others to enjoy in the future. Please note that suitable footwear and clothing is needed although tools or any necessary equipment will be provided.
The next clean-up will be held on Sunday JUNE 9th BOSCAWEN-ÛN STONE CIRCLE o/s 4122 2736. Meet by A30 – starts at 14.00. See website for more details.
DEVON
Barnstaple – North Devon Archaeological Society was established in 1959, and for many years concentrated on providing lectures and visits for members. The society merged with North Devon Rescue, a campaigning organisation which had been instrumental in ensuring proper recording and excavation in the area. At the time of writing there were no events planned for June so it’s a good idea to keep an eye on their website. http://www.ndas.org.uk/
ESSEX
West Essex Archaeology Group, Woodford Green. WEAG’s aim is ‘to promote the advancement of knowledge and education by a study of archaeology, history and kindred subjects ‘.
10th June 2013 – London’s Food Plant Remains. Karen Stewart, Museum of London Archaeology
The lectures take place in the sixth form block of the Woodford County High School, High Road, Woodford Green IG8 9LA on Mondays at 7:45pm unless otherwise stated. Non members are welcome to attend – voluntary contribution appreciated. For further information, see the website at http://www.weag.org.uk/
12th March to 22nd June: Exhibition at Redbridge Museum: 1st Floor Exhibition Area, Redbridge Central Library, Clement Road, Ilford. 500 Years of Redbridge Gardens, Parks and Open Spaces, Tuesdays to Fridays, 10 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. Free Admission.
Barking and District Historical Society: Harp House, 16 Helmore Road (off Goodey Road), Barking, IG11 9PH
Monday 3rd June: The Princess Alice Disaster, Keith Langridge, 7:30 p.m
KENT
Council for Kentish Archaeology
The Society was founded in 1857 and is now a registered charity with the following objects: To promote the study and publication of archaeology and history in all their branches, especially within the ancient county of Kent.
Much of the County has been lost to London since 1857 so the “ancient county” is treated as including the London Boroughs of Bexley, Bromley, Greenwich and Lewisham, as well as Medway and the administrative county. The Society’s interests are not confined to fieldwork. Its objects cover archaeology and local history in the widest sense.
1st. June: Fieldwork, 10.30, Library
8th June: Council, 10.30, Guildhall Museum, Rochester
22th June: Churches visit to St Mary-in-the-Marsh and St Nicholas, New Romney
29 June: One-day conference ‘New Developments in Kentish Urban Studies’, Old Sessions House
http://www.kentarchaeology.org.uk/diary/
NOTTINGHAMSHIRE/DERBYSHIRE
MBArchaeology specialises in Community Archaeology, Education & Research. Based in Nottinghamshire/Derbyshire and offering educational talks, walks, workshops and courses on a whole variety of archaeological topics.
Derbyshire – full-day field visits that run throughout the summer to sites of historical and archaeological interest.
June 9-22 – University of Nottingham, Southwell Project
June 11th – Talk: Archaeology of the Peak District, South Normanton History Group, 1pm
June 13th – Talk: Archaeology of Creswell Crags, Southwell Rotary Club, 7pm
June 29 – Archaeology Walk: Iron Age Nottinghamshire (see Current Projects tab ‘Archaeology Walks’ for details)
See http://www.mbarchaeology.co.uk/upcoming-events/ for further details
WILTSHIRE
Wiltshire Heritage Museum runs a large number of events, exhibitions and activities both for the general public and members of the Wiltshire Archaeological and Natural History Society.
6:30 pm, Thursday, 27 June, 2013: A TALE OF TWO VILLAGES: An evening walk around Alton Barnes and Alton Priors, led by local historian David Carson. Find out fascinating facts about the two churches, what the villages used to look like, the civil war, and eye witness accounts of the machinery riots of 1830.
10:00am, Saturday, 06 July, 2013: EXHIBITION: Inspirations from the Bronze Age: an exhibition by six outstanding contemporary designers and makers
http://www.wiltshireheritage.org.uk/events/ for more details.
PETERBOROUGH
Flag Fen Archaeology Park. The Droveway, Northey Road, Peterborough, PE6 7QJ
Flag Fen is open daily from 10am-5pm (last entry at 4pm) from April to October and provides a marvelous opportunity to see the finds discovered there during excavations, as well as to see some of the reconstructions and experimental archaeology work undertaken there.
WALES
National Museum of Wales, Cathays Park, Cardiff CF10 3NP
Static exhibition in The Archaeology Gallery – Origins: In Search of Early Wales. This traces life in Wales from the earliest humans 230,000 years ago. Who were our ancestors, and how different were they from us? What has changed and what has caused these changes?
Visit the Origins – In Search of Early Wales webpages for more details. FREE ENTRY.
Nation History Museum of Wales – St Fagans
Saturday 15th to Sunday 16th June: 2013 Summer food in the Iron Age. Find out what’s bubbling in the Iron Age cauldron.
Saturday – 22nd. June 2013. 2pm to 3pm: Life in the Iron Age. Looking at everyday life in the Iron Age.
FREE ENTRY – CAR PARKING FEE.
CARDIFF CASTLE
Saturday 22 – Sunday 23rd. June 2012: JOUST! A fun event for all the family. For more information: www.cardiffcastle.com
If you have an upcoming event you’d like included in our listings, please Contact Us with details. We tend to publish events near the start of the month prior to the actual event, so please allow enough notice to be included!
Last weekend saw two archaeological events, some 25 minutes travel apart, which I was fortunate enough to be able to attend.
The first was an Open Day, held by Wessex Archaeology and entitled Extracting the Past. It highlighted their recent work at the Kingsmead Quarry, Horton, west of Heathrow Airport. The area is a complex archaeological landscape with evidence of human occupation spanning a period of over 12,000 years, since the last Ice Age. Particular focus was given to the recently announced find of a rare ‘Beaker Burial‘ of a woman, which included several gold beads (the bling always draws them in!)
The event, in the local Village Hall at Wraysbury, comprised of several information panels, leading through the story of the use of the area, from the Ice Age through to Roman and Anglo-Saxon times. In addition, cabinets of some of the wonderful finds were available to peruse, with several very knowledgeable, friendly and approachable staff on hand to answer any questions. We were greeted and guided as we arrived and generally made to feel most welcome. The various exhibits were explained as we moved around the hall, with someone always on hand to answer any queries or questions. My particular thanks go to Dr Alistair Barclay, who allowed us a close-up examination of an exquisitely worked Picardy bronze clothes pin.
A Beaker vessel from the quarry. Fine lignite beads can be seen in the dish at bottom right.
As you’d expect of Wessex Archaeology, a couple of experts ‘of Time Time fame‘ were also on hand to draw in the public with known names:
Jackie McKinley was examining a human skeleton. Was it the Beaker woman herself? I’m not sure but doubt it, as the bones were open for examination by visitors. Jackie was explaining what the bones could tell us about the person and how they lived.
Meanwhile, in a side hall, Phil Harding was giving demonstrations of his flint knapping knowledge and skills, and generally entertaining his audience with tales of how he started knapping. I found this to be extremely informative, with Phil explaining in plain language the nuances of the different techniques, and what he looks for in a piece of flint when selecting a piece for a particular purpose.
Phil Harding, in his element!
In addition, there were activities for children – including simple pot making and excavation (in a sandpit!) as well as several trays of finds to identify by period.
In terms of outreach, and from what I saw and experienced, I’d have to say the event was an unqualified success. I had arrived relatively early in the day, and after an hour or so decided to take my leave, by which time the hall was filling up and getting quite busy – the event obviously proving popular with the locals!
But I had another appointment, some 10 miles south as the crow flies, in Woking: the AGM of RESCUE, the British Archaeological Trust, of which Heritage Action are proud to hold Affiliate membership.
A relatively short business meeting was held, with the usual reports from Chair, Secretary and Treasurer, and elections for vacant posts. This was followed by an Open Meeting with Gail Boyle, chair of the Society of Museum Archaeologists and Duncan Brown from English Heritage talking about ‘Trouble in store: the crisis facing archaeological archives‘.
The bald facts are that many museums simply cannot keep pace with the scale of developer-led archaeology and, largely due to swingeing government cuts simply do not have the resources to deal with the finds and documentation archives created by development such as those from Kingsmead Quarry, visited earlier in the day.
The point was made that although publication and deposition of findings is often a legal requirement attached to many developments, there is no associated legal requirement for local authorities a) to provide museum facilities or b) to provide deposition facilities, which creates a very large problem.
The talk centred around two documents – a report from the IfA’s ‘Southport Group‘ collated in 2010 which discussed the fact that:
Ultimately, the underlying principles of PPS5 and the Government Statement paint a vision of the future where planning-led investigation of the historic environment delivers far greater rewards and far more immediately recognisable benefits for society as a whole than ever before. Even if or when PPS5 is absorbed into the National Heritage Planning Framework, as anticipated will take place later this year, those principles are set to endure.
and also a recent survey and report produced by the Society of Museum Archaeologists (SMA) . The preface to the report states:
Despite a tacit acceptance that archaeological archives present their own particular set of problems and a few clarion calls like the one above, penned by Dr Ian Longworth as far back as 1991, the archaeological world has continued to find it difficult to come to terms with housing the end product of its investigations.
A growing realisation that, in some areas at least, the situation had become critical resulted in a number of initiatives, not least the day-conference Trouble in Store, organised by the Federation of Archaeological Managers and Employers and held at York in July 2011.
Following the conference FAME and the Society of Museum Archaeologists embarked on a joint initiative, with financial assistance from English Heritage, to attempt to quantify and qualify the current picture, and produce a set of recommendations for future storage strategies.
The report (161 museums were surveyed, 134 provided responses) includes some quite damning statistics.
- Only 84 museums were able to accept depositions without known conditions.
- In 47 local authority areas, there were no museums accepting collections. An interactive map is available on the Archaeology Data Service (ADS) showing details of organisations that are accepting archaeological archives.
- Only around 30% of museums had a specialist archaeology curator.
- In terms of storage, on average, local history collections took up 45% of storage space compared with 22% for archaeological collections.
- Archaeological collections and archives are used in many different ways. A significant number of these would be impossible without specialist archaeological expertise.
The report put forward a series of eight recommendations, and these are currently being worked on, in league with other organisations. In addition, a set of pan-European standards are being worked towards.
There was some discussion following the talk, with mention of use of a Cumbrian salt mine as an economical repository, but there was some concern about the effects of salt on some depositions. The situation is being monitored closely.
As a non-archaeologist, I was surprised at the scale of the problem – I’d been aware that Devizes Museum had announced they would take no more depositions due to lack of available space, but wasn’t aware that so many areas had no facility for deposition at all, nor about the legal dichotomy involved within the planning process. There is obviously much work to be done to try to resolve some of these issues, but with very few easy answers forthcoming.
Slides from the presentation can be viewed here.
We would urge everyone concerned about the multitude of threats to our archaeological heritage to support RESCUE in their campaigning work. Individual membership costs less than 5p per day (£15/year) and every membership helps.
Compiled by Sue Brooke
The following events will be taking place next month, why not add one or two to your diary and join in the fun?
CORNWALL
Cornwall Archaeological Society
Regular walks and talks of interest:
The Society was formed in 1961 – it grew out of the West Cornwall Field Club, itself founded in 1935 by a group of enthusiasts who were studying the archaeology of West Cornwall.
WALKS – Every month there is an archaeological walk somewhere in Cornwall led by members or an invited expert.
TALKS – During winter months talks are given at centres in Truro and Liskeard by speakers, national and local (and including members) who are specialists in their field of interest.
ACTIVITIES – The Society gives opportunities for those interested in practical archaeology to participate in fieldwork and learn archaeological techniques. Members often take part in excavations run by the Cornwall County Council’s Historic Environment Service (HES).
http://www.cornisharchaeology.org.uk/
Cornish Ancient Sites Protection Network
‘A charitable partnership formed to look after the ancient sites and monuments of Cornwall. Currently working closely with local communities and official organisations to protect and promote our ancient heritage landscape through research, education and outreach activities’
CASPN Pathways to the Past, Cornwall are holding a whole weekend of walks and talks amongst the ancient sites of West Penwith:
Saturday May 25th 2013 10.00-12.30pm – ‘Curiouser and Curiouser! ‘ Cheryl Straffon and Lana Jarvis visit enigmatic sites on a guided walk. Meeting at Gurnards Head [SW436 375] and finishing there for lunch if wished.
Saturday May 25th 2013 2.00 – 4.30pm - ‘A stank around the Gump’ A guided walk with archaeologist David Giddings around Portheras Common & Chûn Downs. Meet at North Road layby (near Pendeen) [SW394 334]
Saturday May 25th 2013 8.00 – 10.00pm – ‘Art of the Ancestors’ An illustrated talk by Paul Bonnington about Palaeolithic cave art. At the Count House at Botallack.
Sunday May 26th 2013 2.00 – 4.30pm – ‘Sanctuaries: a lan and a circle’ A guided walk with archaeologist Adrian Rodda, exploring the church at St Buryan, followed by a walk to the Bronze Age circle at Boscawen-ûn. Meeting at St.Buryan church (parking available nearby).
Sunday May 26th 2013 8.00 – 9.00pm ‘ Place names of West Penwith’ – To round off the weekend, local researcher and historian Craig Weatherhill will be chatting about his new research into the original meanings of some of Penwith’s intriguing place names. At the North Inn, Pendeen
NOTE: Each individual event costs £3 but is free to members of FOCAS (Friends of Cornwall’s Ancient Sites). You can join FOCAS at the beginning of an individual event.
For further information see the CASPN web site.
Cornish Ancient Sites Protection Network/ Lizard Ancient Sites Network
Cornish Ancient Sites Protection Network has a sister Group covering sites in the Lizard peninsula called LAN [Lizard Ancient Sites Network]. With initial funding from the Heritage Lottery Fund and English Heritage, a group was set up, consisting of representatives from CASPN, Historic Environment Service, Cornwall Archaeological Society, Meneage Archaeological Group, Natural England and the National Trust. Work continues at these sites and some new ones, and volunteers are always very welcome at the monthly clear-ups These events are a really good opportunity to get a bit more hands-on whilst helping to clear an ancient site in the landscape. This not only allows for physical preservation of the site itself but helps it to be kept safe for others to enjoy in the future. Please note that suitable footwear and clothing is needed although tools or any necessary equipment will be provided.
Tuesday May 14th 2013 - 12.00 noon – Poldowrian Hut Circle [SW 7550 1690]
Meeting at Poldowrian [off the minor road near Ponsongath off B3293]
DEVON
Barnstaple – North Devon Archaeological Society was established in 1959, and for many years concentrated on providing lectures and visits for members. The society merged with North Devon Rescue, a campaigning organisation which had been instrumental in ensuring proper recording and excavation in the area,
Little Potheridge Excavation 11th – 26th May 2013
Starting on 11th May and running until the 26th, there will be a unique opportunity to take part in the excavation of an area known to have been used for clay pipe production. As this is an NDAS project, first priority will be given to NDAS members but we do need people to sign up as there is already outside interest. NDAS don’t need a commitment for both weeks – one week, week-ends or odd days will be fine. If current members could let them know roughly their availability by the end of March at the latest, it will give them time to recruit reinforcements, if necessary.
ESSEX
West Essex Archaeology Group, Woodford Green
WEAG’s aim is ‘to promote the advancement of knowledge and education by a study of archaeology, history and kindred subjects ‘.
13th May 2013 at 7:45pm RUDGE LECTURE:’ The Archaeology of the Thames ‘ Jon Cotton, Consultant Archaeologist
Further information: http://www.weag.org.uk/
Essex Historical Congress
‘Essex Historical Congress was founded in 1964 to bring together all the organisations in the country interested in Archaeology, local history and civic life. Today Essex Congress has over 100 member groups and actively promotes awareness and study of the rich heritage of the County’
The Annual General Meeting will be held on 25th May 2013 at Saffron Walden Museum at 10.00 am.
Further details on the work of the group can be found on their web site.
GLASTONBURY
For something just a little bit different – The next Megalithomania will take place in Glastonbury on 18th – 19th May 2013, plus 5 days of tours. Keep your calendar free for seven days of pure Megalithomania this May.
Early-Bird Tickets and further information on the Megalithomania web site.
KENT
Council for Kentish Archaeology
The Society was founded in 1857 and is now a registered charity with the following objects: To promote the study and publication of archaeology and history in all their branches, especially within the ancient county of Kent. Much of the County has been lost to London since 1857 so the “ancient county” is treated as including the London Boroughs of Bexley, Bromley, Greenwich and Lewisham, as well as Medway and the administrative county. The Society’s interests are not confined to fieldwork. Its objects cover archaeology and local history in the widest sense.
For 6 weeks running from 22 April 2013 ‘Kent and the River. ’ The River Thames has played a vital part in the history of Kent, in peace and war, in work and leisure. This class will look at aspects of the history of the river and its shipping, and the riverside communities.
Lectures in the Library – Morning: 10.15am – 12.15. Afternoon: 2.00pm – 4.00pm
http://www.kentarchaeology.org.uk/kent-archaeology-events/lectures-in-the-library/
LEOMINSTER
Mortimer History Society
‘The Aim of the Mortimer History Society is to provide a forum for all those who are interested in the medieval Mortimer dynasty, both to study, enjoy and to publicise its eventful history’.
An academic and a practical appreciation of the local and national history associated with the Mortimer family. The activities of the Society are aimed at a wide and diverse audience with a special emphasis on Herefordshire, Shropshire, Powys, and in particular young people.
11 May 2013 – Mortimer History Society May Meeting
18 May 2013 – Blanche Mortimer Dress Display
http://www.mortimerhistorysociety.org.uk/index.htm
NOTTINGHAMSHIRE/DERBYSHIRE
MBArchaeology
MBArchaeology specialises in Community Archaeology, Education & Research. Based in Nottinghamshire / Derbyshire and offering educational talks, walks, workshops and courses on a whole variety of archaeological topics.
Derbyshire – full-day field visits that run throughout the summer to sites of historical and archaeological interest.
Sunday 12th May 2013 – ‘Archaeology in the Landscape: Langwith-Elmton’
Friday 17th May 2013 – ‘Archaeology of the Hardwick Estate’
Saturday 18th May 2013 – ‘ Hidden Heritage in the Peak’
Costs vary. For further details see the MBArchaeology web site.
PETERBOROUGH
Flag Fen Archaeology Park. The Droveway, Northey Road, Peterborough, PE6 7QJ
Flag Fen is open daily from 10am-5pm (last entry at 4pm) from April to October and is a marvellous opportunity to see the work undertaken.
WILTSHIRE
Wiltshire Heritage Museum runs a large number of events, exhibitions and activities both for the general public and members of the Wiltshire Archaeological and Natural History Society.
29th March to 1st. September 2013– ‘The Splendour of Stonehenge’ – an exhibition from the Wiltshire Heritage Museum’s extensive collection of paintings, drawings, engravings, prints and photographs of Stonehenge. These date from the 18th century to the present day.
http://www.wiltshireheritage.org.uk/events/
WALES
National Museum of Wales, Cathays Park, Cardiff CF10 3NP
Static exhibition in The Archaeology gallery – Origins: In Search of Early Wales. This traces life in Wales from the earliest humans 230,000 years ago. Who were our ancestors, and how different were they from us? What has changed and what has caused these changes?
Visit the Origins – In Search of Early Wales webpages for more details.
FREE ENTRY.
8 May 2013 1.05pm. Archaeology Lunchtime Talk
‘Technology or Design? Decorating metalwork in the 1st century AD’ Mary Davis, Senior Conservator, Department of Archaeology.
Why and how was metalwork decorated within regions of Britain in direct conflict with Rome? Studying such objects can tell us anything about the varied indigenous societies that produced them, as they adapted to massive social, political and economic changes, accelerated by influences from the continent. This talk will concentrate on analysis of the Seven Sisters Hoard to illustrate some points about style, technology and Late Iron Age practices in Wales.
FREE ENTRY.
22 May 2013 1.05pm. Archaeology Lunchtime Talk
‘Archaeological excavation of experimental roundhouses’. With Professor Martin Bell, Head of Department of Archaeology, University of Reading.
FREE ENTRY
25 May–2 Jun 2013 11am – 4pm. Activity. ‘Pots from the Past’. Make a piece of art inspired by the pots and beakers used to prepare food in ancient times.
FREE ENTRY
St. Fagans: National History Museum. St. Fagans, Cardiff.
25 – 26 May 2013 ‘There’s Something Useful in the Woodland’ an opportunity to find out more about how Iron Age people uses plants to make food, clothing, medicines and beer.
St Fagans is one of Europe’s leading open-air museums and Wales’s most popular heritage attraction. It stands in the grounds of the magnificent St Fagans Castle, a late 16th-century manor house donated to the people of Wales by the Earl of Plymouth. Please check the website for more details in relation to the timings of talks as these sessions are held both in English and Welsh.
Please note: Redevelopment Project – St Fagans: National History Museum has received funding from the Heritage Lottery Fund (HLF) and the Welsh Government to completely transform the visitor experience. Indoor galleries are currently closed as new exhibition spaces are built. The Celtic Village is also closed to prepare the site for a new eco-friendly exhibition space.
There is still plenty to see and visit.
St Fagans: National History Museum is located 4 miles west of Cardiff City Centre, just off the A4232. For satellite navigation purposes use the post code CF5 6XB.
FREE ENTRY but there is a small car parking fee.
For more information, see the Museum of Wales web site.
National Roman Legion Museum
Almost 2,000 years ago, the Roman Empire dominated the civilised world. Wales was its furthest outpost and, in AD 75, a fortress was founded at Caerleon that would guard the region for over 200 years. The National Roman Legion Museum displays a remarkable collection of finds from Roman Caerleon, the base of the second Augustan Legion.
FREE ENTRY
Location: Town Centre, Caerleon, Gwent. Follow the ‘brown helmet’ signs from the M4 (westbound junction 25, eastbound junction 26). For satellite navigation purposes use the post code NP18 1AE (recorded as ‘High Street’).
More information see the Museum of Wales web site.:
6 May 2013 National Roman Legion Museum. ‘Eat, Drink and Be Merry!’
Celebrate a Roman festival – just like the Roman festival, Floralia, in Roman times, there will be eating, drinking, games to play, fighting to watch and contests to take part in.
18 and 19 May 2013 National Roman Legion Museum. ‘Do something different’. Learning new things isn’t just for kids and there’s no reason why it shouldn’t be fun as well! Join in and try a new skill.
Saturday 18th May 2013 – Gladiator training. Unleash your inner warrior! Footwork, guard positions and hitting things included.
Sunday 19th May 2013 – Roman cooking. Use Roman recipes and ingredients to create a simple meal
*Adults only*
Saturday 18 May 2013 Archery – Jonathan Thomas is an experienced traditional archer. His talk will cover methods and manufacture of bows and the history of bows through archaeology and literature. Illustrated throughout with hands on examples of bow parts, and finishing with an outdoor demonstration of different types of bows and shooting.
CALDICOT
Caldicot Castle Country Park
May 5th and 6th 2013 From 10am – 5pm. Fortress Wales 2013 – Multi-period living history re-enactment and military vehicle show. Really good fun with lots happening.
For updates please check the Living History web site.
Compiled by Sue Brooke
The following events will be taking place next month, why not add one or two to your diary and join in the fun?
SOMERSET:
3rd to 7th April 2013 – Network of Ley Hunters Moot. Wells Town Hall, Somerset.
For something just a little bit different to do over Easter week. This is outside of our usual remit, but some readers may find this of interest. This series of events run by the Network of Ley Hunters Moot includes walks on the Glastonbury Zodiac from Wednesday 3rd to Friday 5th and a coach tour on Sunday 7th. The main event will be held on Saturday 6th at Wells Town Hall. For more details please see the event website.
CORNWALL
Cornish Ancient Sites Protection Network CASPN/LAN Site Clearance. These events are a really good opportunity to get a bit more hands-on whilst helping to clear an ancient site in the landscape. This not only allows for physical preservation of the site itself but helps it to be kept safe for others to enjoy in the future. Please note that suitable footwear and clothing is needed although tools or any necessary equipment will be provided.
14th April 2013 – Treen Enclosure/Circle
16th April 2013 – Traboe North Barrow
More information is available from the CASPN web site.
Cornwall Archaeological Society
Regular walks and talks of interest:
The Society was formed in 1961 – it grew out of the West Cornwall Field Club, itself founded in 1935 by a group of enthusiasts who were studying the archaeology of West Cornwall.
WALKS – Every month there is an archaeological walk somewhere in Cornwall led by members or an invited expert.
TALKS – During winter months talks are given at centres in Truro and Liskeard by speakers, national and local (and including members) who are specialists in their field of interest.
ACTIVITIES – The Society gives opportunities for those interested in practical archaeology to participate in fieldwork and learn archaeological techniques. Members often take part in excavations run by the Cornwall County Council’s Historic Environment Service (HES).
See the society website for details of all events.
WILTSHIRE
Wiltshire Heritage Museum runs a large number of events, exhibitions and activities both for the general public and members of the Wiltshire Archaeological and Natural History Society (WAHNS).
29th March to 1st. September 2013 – ‘The Splendour of Stonehenge’ – an exhibition from the Wiltshire Heritage Museum’s extensive collection of paintings, drawings, engravings, prints and photographs of Stonehenge. These date from the 18th century to the present day.
13th April 2013 – ‘The Romans who Shaped Britain’ – a lecture by Sam Moorhead of the British Museum. Based on his recent book of the same name (with David Stuttard, Thames & Hudson, 2012), this lecture will look at the lives of the generals, governors and emperors – and those they sought to rule – occupying this western outcrop of Rome’s empire .
Saturday, 13 April 2013 – ‘YOUNG WANHS: Round the Houses‘ – For Young WANHS Members – an opportunity to see volunteers reconstructing ancient roundhouses based on archaeological findings at Durrington Walls. See ancient roundhouses being reconstructed and try your hand at make hazel wattle fences and applying chalk cob (daub). This event is taking place at Old Sarum and booking is essential.
Saturday, 20 April 2013 – COACH OUTING: Archaeological Walk on Salisbury Plain
Roy Canham will be leading a walk to see the landscape surrounding the Romano-British settlement on Chapperton Down. This walk, inside the Salisbury Plain training area, is led by former county archaeologist Roy, who will highlight some elements of the site in detail. It also hoped to see views across the territory farmed from the settlement. Please dress sensibly with stout walking boots or shoes as the terrain is fairly tough. Bring a waterproof coat too as the weather on Salisbury Plain can be quite changeable!
For further details on all these events please see the museum’s website.
CAMBRIDGESHIRE, Peterborough
Flag Fen Archaeology Park. The Droveway, Northey Road, Peterborough, PE6 7QJ
24th April 2013 – ‘Meet the ancestors’ – At this event the whole family can learn how to excavate like a professional in the newly refurbished dig tent, discovering what archaeology can tell about the people who used to live in the area. Cambridgeshire’s Finds Liaison Officer will be available in the Visitor Centre for anyone who may have uncovered something locally. For more details see the Vivacity website.
NORTH DEVON, BARNSTAPLE
Tuesday 16 April 2013 – ‘Some Designed Landscapes of Exmoor and North Devon’ by Simon Bonviosin. Historic Landscape Consultant.
NDAS was established in 1959, and for many years concentrated on providing lectures and visits for members. The society merged with North Devon Rescue, a campaigning organisation which had been instrumental in ensuring proper recording and excavation in the area, particularly during Barnstaple’s major redevelopment in the 1980s. The society continues to lobby and campaign for proper investigation and preservation of North Devon’s physical heritage. All lectures take place in the Castle Centre, Castle Street, Barnstaple at 7.30pm (parking in the large car park adjacent to the Library) Visitors welcome.
For more information see the society website.
KENT
Saturday 20th April 2013 – Council for Kentish Archaeology Conference
The Society was founded in 1857 and is now a registered charity with the following objects: To promote the study and publication of archaeology and history in all their branches, especially within the ancient county of Kent. Much of the County has been lost to London since 1857 so the “ancient county” is treated as including the London Boroughs of Bexley, Bromley, Greenwich and Lewisham, as well as Medway and the administrative county. The Society’s interests are not confined to fieldwork. Its objects cover archaeology and local history in the widest sense. They include historic buildings, genealogy, industrial archaeology and local history though it is not always active in all these fields. The Society has over 1,200 members, many outside the County or overseas, and welcomes new members who support its objects.
The Conference is entitled ‘Roman Cities and Ports: Londinium and Ostia’. Speakers include:
- Enclosing Londinium: The Landward and Riverside Walls – by Harvey Sheldon
- The London Mithraeum – by John Shepherd
More details are available on the conference website.
LONDON
Wednesday 6th February 2013 to Thursday 21st April 2013 – ‘The General, The Scientist & The Banker: The Birth of Archaeology and the Battle for the Past’
Exhibition at Wellington Arch, Apsley Way, Hyde Park Corner, London – W1J 7JZ
In 1859 two extraordinary events changed the way people considered human existence: a flint hand axe was found in a gravel quarry level with bones of extinct animals, and Charles Darwin published On the Origin of Species. Darwin’s big idea and the discovery of the axe broke the Biblical version of history. Opening with the book and the rarely seen axe, this exhibition tells the story of what happened next – as archaeological pioneers battled to save Britain’s great prehistoric sites from destruction. In partnership with the British Museum, rarely seen art and artefacts bring to life a tale of Victorian prejudice and vision. Further details of the exhibition are available from English Heritage.
WALES
National Museum of Wales, Cathays Park, Cardiff CF10 3NP
10th. April 2013 at 13.05pm. ‘A Very Fair Castle‘ on the River Usk – Newport Castle and its Marcher Lords. Archaeology lunchtime talk with Will Davies, Regional Inspector of Ancient Monuments and Archaeology, CADW. FREE ENTRY See http://www.museumwales.ac.uk/en/whatson/?view=glance&site=cardiff
St. Fagans: National History Museum. St. Fagans, Cardiff.
6th. April 2013. Drop in activity - Join our resident Celt for a look at everyday life in the Iron Age.
13th. April 2013. Talk: Bryn Eryr – How to Build a Roundhouse. Does Iron Age technology have a place in the modern world? Looking back at what we’ve learned from decades of building roundhouses at St Fagans.
St Fagans is one of Europe’s leading open-air museums and Wales’s most popular heritage attraction. It stands in the grounds of the magnificent St Fagans Castle, a late 16th-century manor house donated to the people of Wales by the Earl of Plymouth. Please check the website for more details in relation to the timings of talks as these sessions are held both in English and Welsh.
Redevelopment Project – St Fagans: National History Museum has received funding from the Heritage Lottery Fund (HLF) and the Welsh Government to completely transform the visitor experience. Indoor galleries are currently closed as new exhibition spaces are built. The Celtic Village is also closed to prepare the site for a new eco-friendly exhibition space. There is still plenty to see and visit.
St Fagans: National History Museum is located 4 miles west of Cardiff City Centre, just off the A4232. For satellite navigation purposes use the post code CF5 6XB. FREE ENTRY but there is a small car parking fee, see the website for more information.
National Roman Legion Museum
Almost 2,000 years ago, the Roman Empire dominated the civilised world. Wales was its furthest outpost and, in AD 75, a fortress was founded at Caerleon that would guard the region for over 200 years. The National Roman Legion Museum displays a remarkable collection of finds from Roman Caerleon, the base of the second Augustan Legion. FREE ENTRY
Location: Town Centre, Caerleon, Gwent. Follow the ‘brown helmet’ signs from the M4 (westbound junction 25, eastbound junction 26). For satellite navigation purposes use the post code NP18 1AE (recorded as ‘High Street’). More information is available on their website.
Compiled by Sue Brooke
The following events will be taking place next month, why not add one or two to your diary and join in the fun?
1st and 2nd March 2013 – LONDON – Current Archaeology Live – Two Day Conference.
Over two days this conference will cover a wide range of subjects, from the prehistoric through to early modern. Also includes the Current Archaeology Awards ceremony on the Saturday evening. Bonus activities, on a first come, first served basis will be taking place on Sunday 3rd March. This offer is being run in agreement with English Heritage and offers the opportunity to visit Spitalfields charnel house and Billingsgate bathhouse – absolutely free. For more information or to book tickets please see:
http://www.archaeology.co.uk/articles/current-archaeology-live-2013.htm
2nd March 2013 –BERKSHIRE – Berkshire Archaeological Society Lecture.
To be held in The Cornerstone, Norreys Avenue, Wokingham. The Society exists to protect and promote the archaeology, history, and architecture of the past and present county of Berkshire. The event will present work such as The Iron Age contexts in town life at Silchester, Neolithic houses at Horton Quarry and Boudica’s last stand. For more information please see:
http://www.berksarch.co.uk/
5th March 2013 – DERBYSHIRE – The Archaeology of Creswell Crags.
Morton History Group – MBA Archaeology Talks. MBA, based in Nottinghamshire are involved in community archaeology, education and research, offering the opportunity to engage in educational talks, walks and workshops on a whole range of archaeological topics. For information on this and other events in the area please see:
http://www.mbarchaeology.co.uk/current-projects/derbyshire
7th February – 3rd March 2013 – OXFORD – Miranda Creswell: The Didcot Dog Mile
Cornerstone Arts Centre, Didcot, Oxon. A collaborative exhibition of Miranda’s sketches, archaeological working drawings and historical photographs. Includes artwork by local artists. This event will celebrate both the familiar and the changing landscape of Didcot. For information:
http://www.cornerstone-arts.org/CornerstoneArtsCentreDidcot/EXHIBITIONS/36901.id
8th March 2013 – WELWYN – “70 Years of Archaeology”
A talk by John Smith of the Welwyn Archaeology Society, meeting at the Free Church Hall, Church Road, Welwyn Garden City. WAS are an active archaeological society working on a variety of sites in Hertfordshire. For further information on the work undertaken please see:
http://welwynarchaeologicalsociety.wordpress.com/schedule-of-events/
16th March 2013 – LONDON – Annual Conference of London Archaeologists, at the Museum of London.
London and Middlesex Archaeological Society (LAMAS) annual conference. LAMAS was founded in 1855 ‘for the purpose of investigating the antiquities and early history of the Cities of London and Westminster and the Metropolitan County of Middlesex’. This conference presents work on a whole range of topics from the pre-history of London through to post medieval, including displays of work and publications. An early bird booking discount applies until 1/3/13. For further information and to download the full event programme please see:
http://www.lamas.org.uk/arch2013.html
16th March 2013- BERKSHIRE – Lecture: The health of the Romano British children of Poundbury Camp.
Conference Hall, R.I.S.C, 35 – 39 London Street, Reading RG1 4PS, starting at 14:00.
The Berkshire Archaeological Society exists to protect and promote the archaeology, history, and architecture of the past and present county of Berkshire, for more information on this lecture and in relation to other talks, walks and events please see: Berkshire Archaeology Society website:
http://www.berksarch.co.uk/
16th March 2013 – WILTSHIRE – ‘Archaeology in Wiltshire’.
Wiltshire Heritage Museum has outstanding collections that trace the fascinating history of Wiltshire, its environment and its people over the last 6,000 years. A one-day conference exploring the recent archaeological work in Wiltshire, including developer-funded work is planned. A range of talks and sessions will take place throughout the day with speakers from Wessex Archaeology and English Heritage amongst others of note, organised by the Archaeology Field Group of the Wiltshire Archaeological and Natural History Society. For more information please follow:
http://www.wiltshireheritage.org.uk/events/
29th March-1st September 2013. WILTSHIRE – ’The Splendour of Stonehenge’.
Wiltshire Heritage Museum runs a large number of events, exhibitions and activities both for the general public and members of the Wiltshire Archaeological and Natural History Society. The’ Splendour of Stonehenge’ will be displayed from 29th March to 1st. September 2013, an exhibition from the Wiltshire Heritage Museum’s extensive collection of paintings, drawings, engravings, prints and photographs of Stonehenge. These date from the 18th century to the present day. For further details please see:
http://www.wiltshireheritage.org.uk/events/
19th. March 2013 – CORNWALL – Cornish Ancient Sites Protection Network. Lizard area.
CASPN/LAN Site Clearance. This event is a really good opportunity to get hands-on whilst helping to clear an ancient site in the landscape. This not only allows for preservation of the site itself but helps it to be kept safe so that others may enjoy it. Groups will meet at the Kynance Gate Settlement – suitable clothing is needed although tools or any necessary equipment will be provided. See website for details of the work of this group and for further information on events:
http://www.cornishancientsites.com/lan.html
OXFORD UNIVERSITY DEPARTMENT OF CONTINUING EDUCATION
A variety of courses are available to adult learners; from more informal weekends to accredited distance learning. There is a cost and a real commitment to completing a full course of study but there are many varied courses available from Archaeology to Local History Studies. Please check Oxford University website which gives detailed information on the courses that are available. This offers a really good opportunity to engage in direct or distance learning in a subject of real relevance to your interest:
http://www.conted.ox.ac.uk/courses/results.php?Category=800#rightcontent
SOUTH WALES.
Static display – ‘ Origins – In Search of Early Wales’ National Museum of Wales, Cardiff.
An opportunity to view many varied objects that help trace the very early history of Wales. The stories behind the objects on display provide glimpses of these times, and help to gain a deeper understanding of Welsh origin, from the Palaeolithic and Mesolithic to medieval times. Cathays Park, Cardiff, open 10am–5pm Tuesday–Sunday (Galleries close at 4:45pm) Free entry throughout.
http://www.museumwales.ac.uk/en/origins/
15th February – 6th. March 2013 – Discover the secrets of Caerau Hillfort – ‘A Capital Hill’
An exhibition at The Cardiff Story from 7th February to 6th March. The Caerau and Ely Rediscovering Heritage Project (CAER) is run by Cardiff University’s School of History, Archaeology and Religion, working with Cardiff’s Ely and Caerau communities, excavating and exploring an un-researched Iron-Age hillfort, building a detailed picture of the history of this area. In April 2012 the CAER Heritage Project invited Channel 4′s Timeteam to assist local community members and schools in exploring the archaeology of this amazing Iron Age hillfort in West Cardiff.
The Cardiff Story, The Old Library, The Hayes, Cardiff, CF10 1BH. Free entry throughout. For more information see:
http://www.cardiffstory.com/content.asp?nav=178,228&id=685
Days out with a difference:
31st March – 1st. April 2013 – Knights of Royal England Jousting Tournament .
This is great fun and even the kids will love it. As it involves horses, fighting and lots of noise! The event is being run over two days at Knebworth House from 31st March.
For more information please follow:
http://www.knebworthhouse.com/
5/6/7th March 2013. The Re-enactors Market
Although essentially a market this is also a sociable event where it’s possible to see and purchase goods for re-enactors, historical interpretation and those in the heritage industry. Running from Friday 5th March for three days over the weekend it is to be held at the Sports Connexion, Ryton on Dunsmore.
For more information please follow:
http://www.reenactorsmarket.co.uk/
Further to our Resolutions for 2013, and ideas for getting out and about to experience and learn more about our prehistoric heritage, the Wiltshire Heritage Museum in Devizes regularly runs a large number of events, exhibitions and activities both for the general public and members of the Wiltshire Archaeological and Natural History Society.
A full list of activities can be found on their website, but some upcoming events that caught our eye are listed below:
- 23rd February: “Stonehenge: Results of New Research” a lecture by Professor Mike Parker Pearson, presenting the latest scientific results from laboratory analysis following a decade of fieldwork in the Stonehenge World Heritage Site.
- 16th March: “Archaeology in Wiltshire” a one-day conference exploring recent archaeological work in Wiltshire, including developer-funded work, with a range of talks and sessions throughout the day.
- 29th March-1st September “The Splendour of Stonehenge” an exhibition of pictures from the Museum’s art collection.
- 13th April “The Romans who Shaped Britain” a lecture by Sam Moorhead of the British Museum. This lecture will look at the lives of the generals, governors and emperors – and those they sought to rule – occupying this western outcrop of Rome’s empire. The rich cast of characters includes men and women both noble and venal, courageous and craven. Some of them, such as Caesar and Boudica, may be familiar, other such as Carausius, Magnentius or Valentinus less so.
Prices and availability of all the above are varied, so it’s best to check with the museum before your visit.
If you plan to attend one or more of these events, why not drop us a line and let us know what you thought of them?
As previously reported, a project is underway at the National Maritime Museum in Falmouth, Cornwall, to reconstruct a Bronze Age log boat. The remains of three Bronze Age ships were discovered at North Ferriby on the Humber foreshore between 1937 and 1963, and design of these are being used to devise the current boat, which could be as much as 50+ feet long when completed.
The construction, which is still in it’s early stages, can be viewed by visitors to the museum. Currently, two large (3 ton) English Oak trunks are being sculpted, using nothing more than bronze axes, to form the keel of the boat. Sculpted, because the design requires various ‘blocks’ to remain attached within the body of the boat.
The block of wood on which they’re standing above, will be only 4 inches thick when completed Once the keel’s two halves are completed, a further large tree (8 tons of wood!) will be used to form the planking for the sides of the boat. The whole will be secured with flexible yew stems, and caulked with other vegetation.
Of the 14 tons total of wood, it is estimated that around 9 tons will be waste – though in the Bronze Age such a term would not be used. The chippings and off cuts would be used as fuel for fires, and possibly for insulation or packing.
As part of the exhibition about Bronze Age seafarers, the master copy of the Nebra Disk is also on show, the connection being that it is thought that panned gold, from Carnon Downs near to Falmouth, was used in it’s construction along with Cornish Tin.
The exhibit, which through until September, is well worth a visit, if only to provide some encouragement to the volunteers doing all the hard labour!
Prehistoric Heritage lovers visiting Cornwall this summer have some wonderful treats to look forward to. Of course, there are the copious sites to visit, from the West Penwith peninsula, across the Lizard and on to the delights of Bodmin Moor further east.
But the area’s museums also have something special to serve up this summer too.
The Penlee Gallery, Penzance
Situated in the grounds of Morrab Gardens, the Penlee Gallery is a small museum, largely given over to displaying historic works of art from local artists. However, this summer they have an addition in the Penwith lunula, a crescent shaped gold collar dating from the early Bronze Age (2500bc). It was discovered in 1783 by a John Price, though the location is uncertain, being attributed to Paul parish (where he lived), or more possibly the Gwithian area northwest of Hayle.
In a letter to a fellow of the Society of Antiquaries of London, Price described it being found: ‘in the hundred of Penwith, in this county, by a husbandman, in collecting manure nigh the remains of a circus which from description he apprehends to be composed of earth & not stone.’
A much later account, written in 1860, describes how it was first found in Gwithian, taken to the author’s grandfather (an apothecary in Camborne) to be assayed, and was then sold to Mr Price.
On Price’s death in 1797, the lunula passed to his son. By 1838, it was in the possession of Edward Trafford Leigh, a coin collector who was rector of Cheadle in Cheshire. Leigh had bought it to prevent its export to America. He sold it to the British Museum for 25 guineas in 1838 (an early example of PAS Outreach, perhaps?) – it has remained there ever since, but has rarely been on show. It returned to the Penwith area last year, when it was on loan to Penlee for a few weeks. Now it has returned once again for a more extended loan, and will be on display for the foreseeable future.
The National Maritime Museum, Falmouth
A new exhibition, running for 6 months from April at the National Maritime Museum: 2012BC: Cornwall and the Sea in the Bronze Age allows visitors to step back in time, to over 4500 years ago.
The exhibition provides a full picture of prehistoric Cornwall’s maritime heritage, confirming the county’s importance for trade within Europe at that time. A number of artefacts have been loaned from various museums, including the master copy of the Nebra Sky Disc, the oldest representation of the cosmos anywhere in the world. The gold on the disc has been identified as Cornish, coming from Carnon Down mines near Devoran. Cornisg Tin was also used in the disk’s construction, showing how well Cornwall was connected in those times.
In addition to the exhibits, visitors will be able to watch an archaeological experiment, the recreation of a Bronze Age log boat which will be taking place during the exhibition. The prehistoric boat will be built to scale using replica tools, such as bronze axes. The Bronze Age sewn-plank boat is unique to England and Wales and will be stitched together with yew tree fibres and use moss as caulking, to stop the boat from leaking.
I’ll certainly be visiting both of these in my forthcoming trip to Cornwall later next month.
After the Excavation, at Museum of London
Running through February and March, a series of drop-in interactive handling sessions with staff and volunteers from the Museum’s Archaeological Archive will be taking place in the museum foyer & Archaeology in Action, from 10.00-16.00.
- On Mondays you will have the chance to meet Archaeological Conservators and discover the techniques they use to preserve artefacts.
- On Tuesdays meet volunteers from the Centre for Human Bioarchaeology and find out how they use skeletal remains to understand past Londoner’s lives.
- On Fridays join the Archivists who will reveal the importance of recording archaeological data and the wealth of information that site archives can reveal.
On each of these days you can also visit the Museum of London foyer where various aspects of our work will be showcased including artefacts, photos, tools of the trade and a chance to find out more about the archaeology of London.
More information on the Museum of London web site.
A feature in yesterday’s Salisbury Journal reports that -
ENTHUSIASTS are being offered a brief chance to view a major hoard of Bronze Age artefacts unearthed at Tisbury. From [today] November 16 until Saturday, November 26 more than half the 114 items, which were found by a metal detector enthusiast, will be displayed at Salisbury & South Wilts Museum in Cathedral Close before leaving the city for expert evaluation [at the British Museum].
Archaeologists are already puzzling over how the objects, centuries apart in origin, came to be buried together. The museum’s collections manager Jane Ellis-Schön said: “It’s really quite strange, because some of these items are 1,000 years older than others, yet we believe someone buried them together at the same time, about 2,700 years ago, for a purpose.”
See also here.
