See the Finds from Athersley’s Past

Athersley Archaeologists will be showing off their archaeological finds outside Athersley Co-op on Saturday 17^th May between 11am and 3pm. The finds come from test pits dug all over Athersley and New Lodge last September as part of the Romero Communities’ Hands on History project. As well as having the chance to handle the finds, there will be an exhibition about the dig and Athersley’s past, and the chance to sign up to have a go this year.

Athersley Archaeologists are residents of Athersley, New Lodge and Barnsley who are learning how to dig, wash finds and finding out about Athersley’s past. The test pits were dug in gardens and the three local primary schools. Each one metre square hole was a window into the past beneath our feet. Some of the star finds include a piece of pottery over 600 years old, a Georgian fob seal used by a gentleman to sign letters, Victorian clay tobacco pipes and a potty – a small clay ball used in the miners’ traditional game of knurr and spell.

Carol Clair of Romero Communities says “Last September was amazing because of what we found. Who would think there was so many clues from hundreds of years of history before most of the houses were built. Twenty adults and over 100 school pupils excavated 42 test pits and washed all the finds in three weeks.”

Most test pits will be dug in May and July this year. Anyone can become an Athersley Archaeologist as the team provide the tools and training. For the less able finds sorting and washing while having a natter and cuppa is also an option. This year the aim is to find out more about the old mills at Smithies and the farms near Laithes Lane.

Archaeologist Bill Bevan, leading the project, says “We hope to finds objects thrown away by Victorian or earlier farmers as well as evidence for Smithies’ corn and wool mills which date back hundreds of years.”

If you would like to find out how you can get involved contact Chris on 01226 722571 or 07963 586767. You can also find out more online at http://handsonhistorybarnsley.blogspot.co.uk/ or the Facebook Group Hands On History Barnsley.