Sleeping with the "Enemy": Metal Detecting Hobbyists and Archaeologists. Issue 3 (August 2015)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Reeves, Matthew
• Is Part Of: Advances in archaeological practice. Volume 3: Issue 3(2015)
• Page Start: 263
• Page End: 274
• Publication Date: 2015-08
• Subjects: Archaeology -- Methodology -- Periodicals; Archaeology -- Technological innovations -- Periodicals; Archaeology -- Periodicals; Electronic journals; Periodicals; 930.1028
• DOI: 10.7183/2326-3768.3.3.263
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 2326-3768

Abstract

Abstract: In 2012, the Archaeology Department at James Madison's Montpelier began an experimental program with Minelab Americas to encourage metal detectorists to become more involved in the scientific process of archaeological research. Specifically, the program is designed to be a week-long experience in which archaeologists and metal detectorists work together to identify and preserve archaeological sites at the 2, 700-acre Montpelier property. In the process, the metal detector participants are taught the importance of site preservation through background lectures and hands-on field training in which they use their metal detectors as a remote sensing device. Participants learn how gridded metal detector surveys are conducted and the importance of proper context and curation of recovered objects. The team-based approach of our program has resulted in a co-creation process whereby metal detectorists bring to the table their skills in using their machines to identify subtle metallic artifact signals and archaeologists bring the skill of systematic survey techniques to map and record archaeological sites. In the end, teamwork encourages open and frank discussions regarding the interface between metal detecting and the archaeological communities and has gone a long way toward reconciling differences between these two groups who have a long history of strained relations.