Local Archaeological Excavations: March 2014

The Historical Society has agreed to take part in a series of three archaeological excavations in conjunction with The Landscape Partnership and Queen’s University Belfast’s Centre for Archaeological Fieldwork.

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Dominic O’Loan reports on the first dig.                                                                                 

“The first dig took place from March 20th –March 27th on the sand dunes above Cushendun beach, opposite the car park, in front of Glenmona House.

As the dig proceeded, we found sand and more sand but nothing exciting, not even modern-day rubbish! However, the exercise was a great success for many reasons. It gave us first-hand experience of how an archaeological excavation is carried out and an insight into the rules and regulations that have to be observed.

 

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For a full week we were able to tap into the knowledge and expertise of four highly experienced archaeologists from very different fields: One was based at Queen’s University, a second had just returned from the recent crannog excavation in Fermanagh, another had just completed work on a large scale Flood Relief Scheme in England and a fourth was based at The National Trust.

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Members E. Mc Auley & D. O’Loan shown far right

The most important aim of this project is to promote interest among young people in the sphere of archaeology and this first step was achieved very successfully. In fact almost two hundred school children from the Middle Glens and Glenravel were able to visit the site. In this regard, Ciara oh’Artghaile of The Landscape Partnership Trust provided excellent organisation re: transport to the pupils, reception at Glenmona House and the provision of practical teaching packs for schools.

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The National Trust also made available artefacts through the ages which had been found on their properties and pupils were able to handle each artefact which it was being described by one of the archaeologists. They then looked at the various trenches being worked on and while there were no finds they were able to understand how an archaeological excavation is carried out. The next two digs will be sited so as to give schoolchildren in the remaining school areas the same opportunity.

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All Photographs: Donnell O’Loan

Several members of the society took part in the digging and many others visited the site. The archaeologists were most patient and helpful in answering every question put to them. Having had this first experience it is clear that we can expand the participation of our members and others from the local community.”

The project is funded by the NIEL/NGO Challenge Fund, NIEA and The Heritage Lottery.

Dominic. O’Loan. Hon. Secretary The Glens of Antrim Historical Society

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