www.archaeologyscotland.org.uk ISSUE 16 SPRING 2013

Aerial Views over Scotland

Lidar Aerial of views of St Kilda Soutra Hill Eye in the Sky – aerial drones CONTENTS Issue No 16 / Spring 2013 Editor’s Note ISSN 2041-7039 The next issue will be on the theme Published by of Buildings Archaeology. We also Archaeology Scotland, Suite 1a, Stuart House, editorial national strategies welcome articles on more general topics, community projects, SAM Eskmills, Station Road, 04 Guest Editorial: Aerial Archaeology 22 Unfinished Business – National Parks in Musselburgh EH21 7PB events and research projects, as Tel: 0845 872 3333 Scotland well as members’ letters. Members Fax: 0845 872 3334 are particularly encouraged to Email: info@archaeologyscotland. send letters, short articles, photos org.uk features news and opinions relating to Scottish Scottish Charity SC001723 archaeology at any time for Company No. 262056 06 The View from Above – prehistoric and 24 From the Director inclusion in our ‘Members’ Section’. medieval activity at Soutra Hill 25 Adopt-a-Monument 09 Eye in the Sky 26 Discovery and Excavation in Scotland If you plan to include something Cover picture 12 Recent Aerial Photography on Scotland’s 27 Education; Archaeology Reports Online in the next issue, please contact Dun Deardail Fort © Forestry Commission Scotland National Forest Estate 28 Scottish Archaeology Month 2013 the editor in advance to discuss 15 Low Level Aerial Photography – a technique requirements, as space is usually at for everyone a premium. We cannot guarantee Editing and typesetting 18 Laser Mapping St Kilda to include a particular article in a books particular issue, but we will do our Sue Anderson, 20 Britain from Above Project CFA Archaeology Ltd 30 Vikings to Victorians; Early Medieval very best to accommodate you! [email protected] Scotland High resolution digital images (300 dpi+) are preferred for publication. Advertising Sales 06 18 Please include copyright details and Advertisers should contact the a caption. Archaeology Scotland offices in the first instance. Contributions can be sent by post to the Archaeology Scotland offices © Archaeology Scotland or emailed direct to the Editor Copyright for text published in (see opposite) marked ‘ArcScot Archaeology Scotland magazine will contribution’. rest with Archaeology Scotland and 12 the individual contributors. Please send your contributions by 10 June 2013. Views and opinions expressed within Archaeology Scotland magazine are All copy may be edited for reasons not necessarily those of Archaeology of length and clarity. Scotland, its Board or the Editor

A large print version of Find us on the Web Archaeology Scotland is available on request. Please contact the www.archaeologyscotland.org.uk Archaeology Scotland office for further information. 15 twitter.com/ArchScot facebook.com/pages/Archaeology- Scotland/120787415194 Printed on recycled paper. 09 20

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management of our heritage. But it is only one of a myriad of methods and tools at the disposal of GUEST EDITOR: archaeologists today, as evidenced by the recent Lesley Ferguson is work by GUARD at Soutra Hill. Here, detailed Head of Collections at analysis of aerial photographs and resulting transcriptions identified an extensive complex RCAHMS of cultivation remains adjacent to a Bronze Age cairn, but it was only through excavation that the full extent of this could be appreciated. The aerial photograph and transcription only provided part of the story. This is just one example of the results from Nybster, broch, Caithness, RCAHMS, 2002 © RCAHMS (SC1138562) conventional oblique aerial photography, as practiced since 1976 by RCAHMS, or many of realms of well-funded organisations. Contrast this the other independent aerial archaeologists in with low level aerial photography utilising kites Scotland. Accessible to all through Scotland’s as demonstrated by the exciting work of the West Historic Environment Records or RCAHMS, Lothian Archaeological Trust and Archaeology these images are an invaluable resource for Group. This ‘technique for everyone’ delivers documenting the wider perspective of monuments surprisingly good results for individual sites in their landscapes, for condition monitoring and must offer the participants of all ages the or conservation management. However, they excitement and enjoyment of discovering the view do not give the low level vertical perspective from above while firmly stationed on the ground. or detailed views required to record complex All these papers highlight how far aerial features or urban sites, such as at the medieval photography has come and how accessible it Tantallon Castle, East Lothian, RCAHMS, 1994 © RCAHMS (SC800165) burgh of St Andrews, where an aerial drone was now is in enhancing our understanding and used to great advantage to identify remnants knowledge of our historic environment. Once the ong before it was possible pioneering pilots from World of the tolbooth. For specific projects requiring preserve of the military, commercial companies to fly, Sir John Soane War I that one of Britain’s first low-level and accurately positioned aerial or academic organisations, the articles here (1753–1837), Professor and largest commercial aerial L photography, the drone provides an eminently demonstrate that it is now within reach of of Architecture at the Royal photographic companies was affordable method to aid the interpretation and everyone. Academy, sent some of his formed. At a time when few understanding of our archaeology in far greater students to Wiltshire in June would have had the opportunity detail than would be possible from a small plane. 1817 to make measured to fly, or could even conceive But again, it is supporting fieldwork, as at Rubh’ drawings of buildings and that possibility, Aerofilms Ltd an Dunain, Skye where the different perspective monuments for use as documented Britain from aided the interpretation of the tumbled spread of illustrations in his lectures. above, capturing places and stonework. One of the resulting drawings even significant events, such This integrated approach, utilising different is a beautifully executed and as the crowds cheering the methods and techniques to understand, conserve imaginatively conceived aerial Queen Mary leaving John and manage heritage sites, continues in the view of , complete Brown’s shipyard, and brought project to digitally preserve St Kilda, one of with shadows emanating from a completely new viewpoint to Scotland’s World Heritage Sites, through 3D the magnificent uprights. The people through illustrations in survey of the remains and topography, and bird’s eye view has long been newspapers or publications. It a LiDAR survey which may reveal previously a fascination and for us it can was something completely new unknown features. Combining this with the be difficult to imagine creating and exciting. extensive field surveys and excavation records such a perspective pre-balloon, That novelty value is for St Kilda will provide an incredible wealth of pre-aeroplane and indeed pre- no longer there and for data to enhance our knowledge of life on these photography. archaeologists aerial remote islands. History shows that innovation photography has become The professional and technical knowledge, and technological advancement an absolutely essential tool skill, equipment and finances required to AERIAL ARCHAEOLOGY follows military conflict, and for site discovery, recording, undertake 3D scanning and LiDAR mean that it was from the experience of analysis, understanding and these survey methods are entirely within the Greenhillhead, fort, Dumfries, RCAHMS, 1998 © RCAHMS (SC393332) 4 – ISSUE 16 Spring 2013 – 5

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The View from Above Post hole

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prehistoric and medieval activity at Soutra Hill . 0 . ecent archaeological investigations on Soutra enabling the direction of each of the furrows to 365 Hill uncovered an Early Bronze Age burial be established, as well as the spacing between Rcairn and post-circle on the summit. them. The burial cairn contained a cremation burial The furrows were orientated in several and fragments of two Beaker pots. Radiocarbon directions north–south, north-east–south-

dates obtained from the cremation and charcoal west and east–west. Only in one trench were 3

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recovered from the cairn confirm that the cairn furrows observed to cross over other furrows, 5 was used between 2234–1686 BC and suggest demonstrating that this area had been ploughed at least two phases of use over a prolonged in two different directions. The marks were period of time. approximately 1m apart and between 0.35–0.5m A hitherto unknown circle of post-holes 4.5m in wide and were only observed in the main area diameter was discovered nearby. While undated, of rough pasture. They were not uncovered in this circle of posts is possibly the remains of a the improved pasture on the lower slopes of the timber circle related in some way to the cairn. hillside to the west. The cultivation marks were KEY The investigation of Soutra Hill included a initially investigated at two locations but following Marsh detailed study and transcription of the aerial study of the aerial photograph transcription, Previous trenches & photographs by Kevin Macleod of RCAHMS, additional trenches were excavated to examine evaluation areas followed by field investigation of the cultivation a possible field boundary associated with the Extent of quarry extension remains revealed in those aerial photographs. furrows. In these trenches the furrows were Trenches containing cord rig The cultivation marks were not particularly orientated approximately east–west and were up RCAHMS rig visible on the ground when walking over the to 0.5m wide and a maximum of 0.06m deep, RCAHMS cord rig hillside but, when the evaluation trenches were filled with a dark brown silty fill with few small RCAHMS sheep stell Existing quarried edge 0 100 m excavated, numerous cultivation furrows were stone and modern roots but no artefacts. Cairn & post hole circle Reproduced by permission of Ordnance Survey on behalf of the Controller revealed. These furrows were found in 51 of In total from the three locations 14 furrows of Her Majesty's Stationery Office. All rights reserved. Licence number 100050699.

the original 104 evaluation trenches excavated were investigated and sampled. Trace levels 5 Soutra Quarry Expansion Area showing extent of cord rig recorded by aerial photograph transcription and the evaluation trenches where . across the 12.69 ha quarry extension area, of charcoal from alder, birch, hazel and oak 352 plough furrows were encountered © RCAHMS were recovered from four of the furrows with no just one factor and that other factors including evidence for cereals or other crops. The charcoal, changes in agricultural practices and population .5 however, was not of sufficient size to obtain a pressures have a357 bigger role in determining if radiocarbon date and it is difficult to date the these areas were cultivated or, more importantly, 360.0 .0 cultivation marks confidently. remain in cultivation.355 Although undated, the cultivation furrows The evaluation trenches and transcription of the suggest a potential later prehistoric or medieval aerial photographs confirmed that the cultivation use of the hill. Their survival is partly due to furrows were orientated in several directions their location on the summit and higher ground and there were dense patches that may indicate where there have been less recent agricultural small fields. There were also small pockets in the activities and improvements. The furrows, lower fields which suggest that the cord rig had although extensive in area, do not appear to been much more extensive but has now been lost have been used intensively as repeated cultivation through modern agricultural practices. However, would have obscured or removed the individual it was noticeable that there were distinctly fewer features. cultivation furrows around the Bronze Age cairn The presence of rig at higher altitudes – in what and the nearby post-hole circle, so it is possible are now marginal areas mainly used for grazing that the furrows were created during a time and forestry plantations – does demonstrate that when these two features were significant enough cultivation was possible in these upland areas. to avoid. Although the furrows run in different Research into cultivation of marginal areas in directions they were only seen to bisect in one the Lammermuir Hills and Cheviots, and the trench on the east side, suggesting that the effects that environmental factors may have on ground was not intensively ploughed. Soutra Cairn with the Lothian Plain stretching below © GUARD Archaeology cultivation, has demonstrated that climate is In Northumberland cord rig has been identified 6 – ISSUE 16 Spring 2013 – 7 features

survived on the ground. While ground level, and no more than the evidence from the aerial 500m from the operator. Even photographs and the evaluation within these restrictions it is trenches matched up fairly possible to gather a wide range well in some cases, there were of data very quickly and easily. notable discrepancies across The most common much of the investigation area: configuration is a central pod cord rig being uncovered in trial trenches in areas devoid with a series of arms, four to of cord rig on the photographs eight in number, extending from but also trenches without cord it. At the end of each arm is an rig where photographs indicate electric motor which drives a there should have been, not vertically-set fixed pitch rotor. to mention the remains of the Eye To cancel torque half the rotors small timber circle near the rotate clockwise, the other half burial cairn which was not in the anti-clockwise. Control, which apparent in aerial photographs. is largely automatic, is achieved These results highlight the by varying the power of the very superficial nature of the The post-hole circle © GUARD Archaeology Sky individual motors. surviving evidence for cord rig The system we use was and that aerial photographs do at heights over 335m above lands and granges to provide developed to record a complex not provide the whole record. sea level, which matches the income with which to operate. The full report on the set of features at Rubh’ an remains at Soutra. However, It is possible, then, that the investigations, Soutra Hill: Dùnain on Skye, believed to be the cord rig at Soutra is cord rig at Soutra Hill derives Prehistoric and Medieval Activity a multi-period secure harbour narrower than that observed in from such settlement of the on the Edge of the Lothian Plain and boat-building facility Northumbria (1m between rigs land around Soutra Hospital – ARO3, is freely available as with a history extending from as opposed to 1.4m). While during the medieval period. an online digital report from prehistoric until quite recent it could be that the variation The reference to a beacon Archaeology Reports Online, in width of the Soutra Hill stance at Soutra Hill in an Act times. At ground level it was www.archaeologyreportsonline. furrows from prehistoric cord of Parliament of 1455 further difficult to determine patterns in com, a new rig elsewhere relates simply to indicates Soutra Hill’s place the much-tumbled stonework, publication outlet. The Hexakopter in use at Ardestie, Angus © E Martin drainage conditions, narrower within the medieval landscape. and attempts to do so involved unacceptable levels of rig being the result of wetter The GUARD Archaeology Bob Will, GUARD Archaeology erial drones are now an a pre-set sequence. Data are investigations not only highlight subjectivity. Conventional aerial ground conditions, it is also Ltd important archaeological continually logged in flight worth noting that the site lies in the importance of Soutra Hill photography, though helpful, The Soutra Hill archaeological tool. They are not sinister so that photographic or other close proximity to the medieval within the Early Bronze Age A did not provide the vertical investigations were carried out proxy weapons of the military, information can subsequently hospital of Soutra Aisle. This landscape of the Lothian viewpoint and stone-by-stone by GUARD Archaeology between but small unmanned flying be downloaded and processed. hospital, known as the House of Plain and later use of the site, November 2010 and June 2011, resolution required. the Holy Trinity, was established probably during the medieval in advance of an extension to the vehicles which can lift a camera by 1164 and run by Augustinian period, but also demonstrate existing Soutra Quarry, and were or other piece of lightweight monks, and was at the time the the disparity between the aerial funded by Skene Group Ltd. equipment to a precise location Conventional photography did not provide the largest hospital in Scotland. photographs and what actually and height under control from It was located on the ‘King’s the ground. Flight patterns stone-by-stone resolution required Highway’ which was the main can be pre-programmed by road from Scotland to England GPS. Gyro stabilisation ensures Definitions We chose a six-armed and followed the line of Dere stable flight, while camera Small unmanned surveillance Cord rig is a term used to describe prehistoric cultivation marks Hexakopter which can lift a Street, an earlier Roman road. angles can be adjusted at aircraft (SUSAs) are regulated Soutra was established not only that survive on the higher ground in the Borders area between payload of up to 1.5kg to will. What the camera ‘sees’ in the UK by the Civil Aviation to treat the sick, to provide the Tyne and the Forth. However, cord rig is believed to date which a 12 megapixel Olympus is transmitted in real-time to Authority. Operators must meet hospitality to travellers and to to the Iron Age, not the Early Bronze Age (when the cairn was E-PL2 was fitted. The camera is the operator’s screen. High- strict safety guidelines in order give alms to the poor, but also constructed), and is thought to be the result of ploughing rather mounted on a stabilised gimbal resolution photography, video, to undertake aerial work. The to provide legal sanctuary. The than hand digging due to the large size of the areas cultivated which keeps the camera’s or other recording equipment rules currently allow SUSAs to hospital at Soutra, like many and the regular nature of the rig or furrows. orientation fixed relative to monasteries, was endowed with can be actuated at will, or to be flown up to 400 feet above the ground. The system was 8 – ISSUE 16 Spring 2013 – 9 features

of the site, and the HexaKopter fugitive remains of the early more accurate positioning was later employed to lift a Tolbooth were identified in than conventional aerial small video camera to provide fragmentary form. Crucial to photography can achieve. dramatic footage for a BBC the interpretation were slight Finally, the system can also documentary. differences in soil texture and be used to provide a fresh The system has now colour, difficult to spot in close view of standing monuments, been used on a variety of proximity, which the aerial or to inspect the condition archaeological sites where pictures clearly reveal. The of structures without the accurately positioned low- technique is also well suited to expense and inconvenience of level aerial photography, coastal work, and it has been scaffolding. So look out for the either vertical or oblique, is used to record an early 19th- eye in the sky! required. It has been applied century lighthouse-building Edward Martin on urban sites, notably at St workyard and quay at Fife Andrews where excavation in Ness. advance of road resurfacing in This spring, work is scheduled More information Market Street, at the heart of with the Forestry Commission, [email protected] the medieval burgh, revealed recording small archaeological www.em-photo.co.uk a complex of mainly modern sites in recently felled ground, disturbance within which the which requires lower and

Vertical view of the souterrain at Ardestie, Angus © E Martin put together in-house from than a conventional survey only emerged after the aerial specialised components to could have achieved, and it photographic data had been accommodate our particular is salutary to note that many assessed. needs and reduce cost. Though of the ‘patterns’ previously The same photographic complex, it is lightweight, observed were illusory, while information was used to create robust, and well adapted to other apparently genuine ones a 3-dimensional ‘fly-through’ transport and use in rough and remote terrain. A set of 30 overlapping vertical photographs of the main canal feature, covering an area of roughly 150m by 40m, was rectified with reference to an earlier plane- table survey (it could equally well have been done by setting out and surveying ground control points). The resulting mosaic was then used to inform a drawn survey of the features at Rubh’ an Dùnain. Finally a return visit with the draft sheets allowed details to be checked and interpretations confirmed. The result was much more Remains of a settlement in Glen Brittle on Skye. From an elevated position it is much easier to reliable, detailed and objective see the shapes and relative positions of the overgrown structures. © E Martin Canal mouth and remnants of submerged quay at Rubh’ an Dùnain, Skye © E Martin 10 – ISSUE 16 Spring 2013 – 11 features The Iron Age Dun of Castle Dounie in Knapdale Recent Aerial Photography on Scotland’s (NR 767 932) The conservation management plan outlined proposals to re-route the National Forest Estate informal access path to enter s part of the FCS Historic Environment and landscape images. via the original entrance (a programme – and in support of a In the main, the objectives of oblique aerial more appropriate and less Awider range of initiatives – a number of photography for archaeological conservation damaging approach). A significant archaeological sites have recently management are to provide detailed close- measured archaeological been photographed by Caledonian Air Surveys. up shots (for use in publications, conservation survey provided a series The photography has been used to support management planning and condition monitoring) publications such as the recent Archaeological and landscape shots, setting the site in its wider of detailed and annotated Measured Survey on Scotland’s National context (providing images for use in Forest Design measured plans and elevations; Forest Estate, to illustrate and inform on-site Plans and raising the profile of the important an archaeological evaluation interpretation panels and as a detailed record archaeological site contained within). was undertaken of the entrance for our conservation management plans and Aerial photography is a cost-effective method and watching brief during path condition monitoring. of providing high quality images for a huge range works; and specialist path The oblique aerial photography was of purposes. All of our archaeological aerial construction was commissioned undertaken using a range of digital cameras photography is made available for public use to create a robust and durable from a small Cessna light aircraft operating out and archive via Scotland’s Historic Environment path in keeping with the of Inverness. Using a GPS, annotated maps and Records. character of the site. a written description (of both the site and the key Matt Ritchie, Aerial photography set the objectives of photography), the photographer FCS Archaeologist site in its landscape context (at located each site and took a series of detailed the end of an impressive ridge) and provided detailed images

Argyll for use in a forthcoming FCS conservation management case Dun Deardail study. The site is also the cover star of our new publication A Desirable Residence in Glen Nevis ‘Archaeological Measured We think Dun Deardail fort was built Survey on Scotland’s national around 2 000 years ago. It may have been occupied or rebuilt on several occasions through time – forest estate’ (available online from Celtic fort to Pictish citadel.

Imagine the people who lived here, and on request)! their colourful flags and banners proclaiming the power of the tribe to which they belonged. The fort dominates the glen – a natural stronghold with amazing views.

The Night Follow the main path, which will take you through the original entrance of the fort. of the Burning Please keep to this path and help When did people last live here? protect the remaining rampart. We arent sure – but we do know why they left. Dun Deardail is a Scheduled Monument and is protected by Fire destroyed the fort. Intense heat melted the rock – Detail of the rampart law. It is an offence to damage it in any way, or to use a metal detector. a process known as vitrification. You can still see blocks of construction For more information please contact: burnt stone rubble within the walls of the upper citadel and Forestry Commission Scotland Discover your roots in Scotland’s forests the lower enclosure. Lachaber Forest District Office 01397 702184 [email protected] visit : www.forestheritagescotland.com Vitrification was unlikely to have been the result of accidental www.forestry.gov.uk/scotland fire. The heat required to melt the rock is such that the fires must have been deliberately set, the timber laced ramparts Archaeological Measured Survey heaped with additional wood. Dun Deardail was deliberately destroyed - perhaps symbolically by victorious attackers, or perhaps as a ceremonial event following the death of a tribal on Scotland’s national forest estate

Design: FCS Design & Interpretive Services, Edinburgh 0131 334 0303 - Mar 2010 Services, Design: FCS Design & Interpretive chief or king. We may never know for sure. Photos © FCS The fort of Dun Deardail in Glen Nevis (NN 127 701) The vitrified ramparts of Dun Deardail in Glen Nevis were recently the subject of path repair and realignment. The old tracks can clearly be seen running up the knoll and over the ramparts, while the new track bends around the contour and uses the original entrance of the fort. The aerial photography has been essential in illustrating the work within a forthcoming FCS conservation management case study – and was used to inform the on- site interpretation panel. Photos © FCS 12 – ISSUE 16 Spring 2013 – 13 features Low Level Aerial Photography a technique for everyone Dun a’Choin Dhuibh overlooks West Loch Tarbert in Knapdale (NR 804 640). The site is an interesting and complex example of a small Iron Age dun. The detailed aerial More information photography (view facing NW) provides a record www.forestry.gov.uk/ for condition monitoring (alongside terrestrial historicenvironment photography) and supports the presentation of www.caledonianairsurveys.co.uk the archaeological measured survey. The survey [email protected] was undertaken by AOC Archaeology using a laser scanner.

N Dun A’Choin Duibh, Argyll 180420 180450 x 664110 664110

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13 12 Jim Knowles and John Wells demonstrating kite aerial photography on Cairnpapple Hill © CC-BY West Lothian Archaeology

est Lothian re-interpretation of data that image of Kinneil Roman Fortlet 11 Archaeological Trust has not been seen before. there are two faint, horizontal, A 5 4 and Archaeology Photographs are best taken parallel features on the right.

0.0 5.0 10.0m W 0.0 10.0 20.0m 30.0ft Group specialise in low level when: the sun is low in the sky; These features indicate the Dun a’Choin Dhuibh 3 6 aerial photography using kites. crops are reaching maturation; position of excavation trenches

2 1 7 (NR 804 640) The site is an interesting and complex B 3 In the UK there is a height parch marks are developing; dug 30 years previously.

1 example of a small Iron Age dun and overlooks 2 restriction of 60m above which there is a shallow, uniform For the best NIR images, one 8 West Loch Tarbert in Knapdale. The detailed aerial 10 kites should not be flown covering of snow; there is a uses a camera which has been

9 photography (view facing NW) provides a record 664060 664060 without special permission from partial melt of snow revealing specially converted for use in 180450 for condition monitoring (alongside terrestrial 180420 the Civil Aviation Authority, differential thermal conditions; this part of the spectrum (www. photography) and supports the presentation of the which is less onerous than it there is ice in hollows; there is armadale.org.uk/phototech. Plan: 1: 200 @ A3 archaeological measured survey. The survey was Elevation: 1: 100 @ A3 may sound. For most sites this no direct sunlight, if you are htm). undertaken by AOC Archaeology using a laser B height is more than adequate, going to add artificial lighting Near ultraviolet (NUV) but if permission has not to virtual 3D models. photography can also be used, scanner. 0.0 5.0m A be sought before visiting a Photography is not restricted but it is best indicated for areas

ARCHAEOLOGY HERITAGE CONSERVATION

www.aocarchaeology.com Photos © FCS particular site, one can always to working in the visible part resort to stitching images of the spectrum. Working in together as shown in the photo the near infra-red (NIR) is very Advantages of using kites of Ardoch Roman Fort. useful for increasing contrast Another approach is to take (which one can also do by • low initial cost multiple images and merge using the red channel in normal • no running cost them into a virtual 3D model images) and for delineating • low skill requirements using a user-friendly program features by differential moisture • inclusivity like Photoscan. The model content or by the condition of • portability can then be viewed from any the overlying flora, as illustrated • high resolution angle, used in dynamic displays with early onset parching of • ready availability when needed (Structure from Motion), and grass in an image of Rufford • single person operation artificial light can be cast Abbey. • zero environmental impact (no across the model to reveal low Aerial photography can fuel/noise) relief features. Photogrammetry yield images that are complex, • upgradeability to remote control can prove to be more efficient misleading and show features and video preview if necessary for mapping spatial data than a from different time periods. • ability to lift a heavy load total station, thus enabling the For example, in an NIR aerial

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with minimal or no vegetation. rocket (www.armadale.org.uk/ Dedicated UV photographic aerialtechniquesforchildren. equipment can be expensive, htm). Working with balloons so we simply use a normal is a particularly good method compact camera with a cheap with young children because, filter arrangement which allows if the line reel is dropped, the through low levels of NUV balloon will not fly away (unless using slow shutter speeds. We it is too big!). In addition to the take videos and select any Velcro, which provides stability, acceptable stills, albeit at a low a short safety line is also used resolution (640x480 pixels). should the Velcro detach. We use the same video The Trustees, West Lothian approach with more costly Archaeological Trust thermal infra-red (TIR) imagers where the resolution is even more limited at 320x240 pixels, Further information but which is adequate for imaging smaller archaeological www.WestLothianArchaeology.org.uk www.wlatrust.org.uk sites and features. Dependent Kinneil Roman Fortlet (NIR) © CC-BY West Lothian Archaeology A prehistoric site (No.111) excavated by Biggar Archaeology in the Daer Valley © CC-BY West on height, this resolution is www.armadale.org.uk ‘technique for everyone’ apply? are available with an interval Lothian Archaeology usually better than the routine or e-mail us with any queries: sampling resolution of our Simply, digital cameras mode (time lapse), which to take photos, it is simply a below a helium-filled party soil resistance measurements have no running costs. All one allows the camera to be set to matter of launching it into the balloon(s), onto a kite or kite [email protected] of one data point per square needs is a way of triggering take a number of images over air suspended from a kite line, line and even flown on a water metre. Thermal imaging can the camera to take photos a specific time interval. Some usually using a device called reveal surface and subsurface repeatedly. Most digital cameras can operate with a a Picavet suspension which is features by visualising their cameras have a continuous short-range IR remote control described at www.armadale. differential cooling/warming, shooting mode, which, when receiver. This receiver can org.uk/kitebasic.htm. A Picavet or by showing temperature the shutter button is held down, also be triggered by a small, rig can be homemade or differences resulting from allows the camera to take flashing, pre-programmed IR bought for about £30. differential water loss in photos, often until the memory light (called a GentLED) which We find that children from overlying crops. Such thermal card is full. Button depression can be mounted with Velcro primary school age upwards crop marks can occur at any can be achieved with a bead onto the front of the camera. enjoy kite and pole aerial time during crop growth, unlike on an elastic band or cable tie. The flashing interval can be photography using our conventional crop marks. We still use this approach with varied by means of a small standard equipment, whereas But, if this all sounds a our NIR cameras. Alternatively, screw. adults approach the subject little technical, how does the a small number of cameras When the camera is activated with a degree of trepidation. Worries about health and safety and writing off cameras are often uppermost in the mind. So we are now investigating simple techniques using a cheap (£27), light (18g), robust, stick-on HD video camera (Eletoponline 808#16D) which has an ultra-wide angle lens with a 120 degree field of view. The wide angle ensures good coverage at low altitudes and minimises the effects of camera movement. As the camera is light, it can be Velcroed onto the Composite image of Ardoch Roman Fort looking south © Jim Knowles, West Lothian Archaeology top of a carp fishing pole, Rufford Abbey beyond the end of the building (NIR) © Jim Knowles, West Lothian Archaeology 16 – ISSUE 16 Spring 2013 – 17 features

The Scottish Ten The Scottish Ten is a five year project using advanced 3D survey technologies to preserve digitally Scotland’s five UNESCO designated World Heritage Sites and five international heritage sites in order better to conserve and manage them. The project is a partnership between Historic Scotland and the Digital Design Studio at The Glasgow School of Art. Scottish Ten data will be shared with the world via our US partner CyArk’s digital archive. Laser Mapping St Kilda LiDAR elevation map of Hirta and Dun, with scale showing height in metres above sea level © Find out more Centre for Digital Documentation and Visualisation LLP www.scottishten.org The Scottish Ten Initiative www.cyark.org visualisation techniques, the and landscape features of [email protected] Scottish Ten survey data can be the archipelago and so be a Perspective point cloud image of the main street of historic blackhouses and cottages in Village Bay, St Kilda © Centre for Digital [email protected] combined with high-resolution valuable monitoring tool and Documentation and Visualisation LLP [email protected] digital photography to develop enhance our understanding virtual and remote access tools and knowledge of the more t Kilda is one of the most a range of terrestrial laser photography at a spatial a holistic model of the entire to bring the spectacular islands remote and inaccessible areas. remote and inaccessible scanners, GNSS equipment resolution of approximately of St Kilda to a much wider parts of the British Isles, and high-end digital cameras. 50cm in X and Y co-ordinates archipelago. Lyn Wilson, Historic Scotland S The 3D digital preservation audience and offer exciting lying 160km off the west coast Over 500 individual scans and 15cm in Z co-ordinates. Alastair Rawlinson, The record has numerous interpretation opportunities. of mainland Scotland. The tiny were undertaken, generating This has generated an The data will also provide Glasgow School of Art archipelago comprises four a registered georeferenced 3D unsurpassed digital terrain potential uses in the ongoing conservation and management a baseline survey of the Susan Bain, National Trust for main islands – Hirta, Dun, Soay point cloud with an accuracy model of the islands. At this condition of the built heritage Scotland and Boreray and numerous of ±8mm, an average spatial resolution, heritage structures of St Kilda. With advanced sea stacs. Archaeological resolution of 6–8mm and a are visible, and the data evidence suggests the islands raw file size of approx 1 TB. may be interrogated for were occupied for over 4000 All structures within the Head archaeological features as yet years until 1930, when the Dyke area in Village Bay were unknown. The LiDAR survey community decided to leave. recorded including the Military has provided excellent data for Today St Kilda is the UK’s Base, plus the structures at An the sea cliffs and stacs, and only mixed World Heritage Lag, and the Amazon’s House will facilitate research on their Site inscribed for its dramatic in Gleann Mor. The main Radar morphology and topography. landscape, as a major seabird Base was also digitally surveyed The airborne LiDAR model breeding area and for its in 3D. To set the site in context, will be integrated with the cultural landscape. a long-range laser scanner, terrestrially captured survey typically used in mining to create a comprehensive applications, was employed to dataset, which will feature high- The survey has generated an document the environmental resolution spatial geometry setting of Village Bay. within the contextual setting unsurpassed digital terrain However, the World Heritage of the island chain. Working zone covers the entirety of St with the British Geological model of the islands Kilda, including all islands and Survey and Scottish Natural stacs. The Scottish Ten therefore Heritage, the Scottish Ten In July 2011, the Scottish Ten commissioned an airborne survey data will be integrated team spent two weeks on Hirta LiDAR (Light Detection and with their bathymetric sub- carrying out an accurate 3D Ranging) survey from a fixed- surface multi-beam sonar data survey of the cultural heritage wing aircraft to capture 3D from the waters surrounding and the topography using geometry and ortho-rectified St Kilda’s islands to generate LiDAR 3D digital terrain model, showing Hirta, Soay and Dun, with Boreray inset © Centre for Digital Documentation and Visualisation LLP

18 – ISSUE 16 Spring 2013 – 19 features

Britain from Above Project the company’s specialism. Aerofilms operated from 1919 rom the first examples taken from the Aerofilms Collection. and Claude Graham-White to 2006, with a notable break from hot air balloon in the This unique and internationally spotted an opportunity in the from 1940 to 1946 when the F19th century to the latest important body of early oblique market. Both had connections company was co-opted into satellite imagery on Google aerial photography is being with the Royal Naval Air the war effort, forming the maps, aerial photographs give digitised and published online Service and combined their core of the Allied Photographic fascinating perspectives on on the Britain from Above expertise in combat flying and Interpretation Unit at RAF landscapes and townscapes in website, and members of the military reconnaissance to Medmenham. The images they the present as well as the past. public are being invited to help go into business, taking on captured are remarkable. They The bird’s eye view introduces identify the images and share commissions and building up provide a wealth of evidence us to new places, enables us their memories of places. an image library for selling on for tracking change to our to recognise and remember These images were created to the newspapers. towns and countryside, and well-known sites, and stirs by Aerofilms Ltd, Britain’s provide a unique, nostalgic memories, helping us recall the first commercial aerial snapshot of and daily history of our neighbourhoods photography company. Its Only with your help can life in Britain during the first half and districts. A joint heritage origins lie in the military of the 20th century. The entire project, Britain from Above, innovation of the First World we unlock the real value Aerofilms collection includes is seeking to jog people’s War, and the entrepreneurial 1.26 million negatives on glass memories and is appealing to drive of two pioneer pilots. of these images plate, nitrate and acetate film, internet users to help interpret The opening decades of and more than 2000 albums a unique collection of aerial the 20th century were the of images. Its breadth covers photographs. early days for both aviation In May 1919 Wills and almost every sizeable British This three-year, Heritage and aerial photography, Graham-White set up base settlement, industry and natural Lottery funded project and the application of these at the London Aerodrome environment and presents between English Heritage technologies had been used in Hendon, North London. the changing face of Britain’s and its partners, the Royal to gain strategic military Theirs was a modest start, with urban, suburban and rural Commissions on the Ancient advantage during the First £3000 capital, flying borrowed landscapes from the end of The McEwan Hall, Royal Scottish Museum, Greyfriars Kirk and George Heriot’s School are just and Historical Monuments World War. Spurred on by the planes and developing glass World War I to the beginning of some of the landmarks in this image of Edinburgh’s Southside, 17 August 1951. © RCAHMS of Scotland and of Wales, is rapid technological advances plates in a bathroom at the the 21st century. (SC1297651) making available 95,000 of of the war years, two veteran London Flying Hotel on the The collection was purchased the earliest aerial photographs pilots, Francis Lewis Wills Hendon site. Initial sorties in 2007 together with its stories and recollections which to describe the great changes were undertaken close to their associated documentation, improve our understanding the 20th century brought North London base, but as the including the vitally important of local history. In addition to our towns, country and business grew they travelled registers which record the to the online activity there communities. further afield, taking on jobs location where each image are community and outreach Brian Wilkinson, Britain from across England, Wales and was taken. With £1.7m from projects focussed on engaging Above Activity Officer for eventually reaching Scotland in the Heritage Lottery Fund people creatively with the Scotland the spring of 1927. granted in November 2010 an historic images, educational In their early days Aerofilms ambitious project to conserve, resources for schools are under even dabbled in running a cine digitise and catalogue the development, and exhibitions Further information and a book telling the Aerofilms film service, briefly engaging 95,000 oldest images within The Britain from Above website pioneering filmmaker and the collection has been story will be launched in 2014. Since the website went live in presents the unique Aerofilms cinematographer Claude undertaken, and these include collection of aerial photographs Friese-Green as their technical over 4000 images of Scotland. June 2012, over 24,000 users have registered to use the site from 1919–1953. Register director for film services. The Britain from Above to zoom into these amazing The company history records project is making the Aerofilms and submitted nearly 55,000 comments and recollections, pictures, identify unlocated them offering film studios the collection widely accessible images, and share memories: opportunity of ‘filming stunts through free online access to but there is still so much more www.britainfromabove.org.uk from the air and from the digital images. The website to do. The project team want to ground which involved thrilling gives users the opportunity draw out the stories of places www.rcahms.gov.uk that lie hidden within people’s villain-chasing with trains and to share and record their [email protected]. boats and aeroplanes’. memories of the places shown, memories. Only with your help Crowds line the south bank of the Clyde to watch RMS Queen Mary leaving John Brown’s However, aerial oblique enhancing the images by can we unlock the real value Shipyard, 24 March 1936. © RCAHMS (SC1257784) photography swiftly became adding the important personal of these images, by helping 20 – ISSUE 16 Spring 2013 – 21 national strategies working landscapes. The sort one of the last countries on criteria and therefore merit of world-renowned places earth to have National Parks; National Park status, including designated as National Parks the Loch Lomond and the at least one coastal and marine Unfinished Business include Jotunheimen in Norway, Trossachs National Park and National Park. After launching Kilimanjaro in Tanzania, the the Cairngorms National Park the report we will campaign Galapagos islands in Ecuador, were designated in 2002–03. for the Scottish Government Cradle Mountain in Tasmania, In recognition of our superlative to implement its proposals. the Karakoram in Pakistan and marine environment, Scottish We would welcome support Yosemite in the USA. Natural Heritage and the for our proposals from other We believe that Scottish Executive put in a organisations, and I would be National Parks bring many great deal of work during pleased to submit articles for environmental, social and 2005–06 towards preparing other publications or to speak economic benefits to the for Scotland’s first coastal and about the report at conferences country in which they are marine National Park. However or other events. Please contact situated. However, many of this was shelved after the 2007 me on scnp-aprs@btconnect. these benefits can be delivered election in favour of work on com or 0131 225 7012 if you in other ways and by other the Marine (Scotland) Act, would like to get involved. bodies, so the obvious question which was eventually passed in John Mayhew, Scottish National is what can National Park 2010. Parks Strategy Project designation deliver better than Our joint report, Unfinished any of the other options? We Business, due to be launched in SCNP promotes the protection, feel the key issues are that April 2013, will summarise the enhancement and enjoyment of National Parks generate a benefits which National Parks National Parks, potential National National Parks in Scotland high profile, support the active bring, and will recommend a Parks and other nationally management of an area, not number of improvements to the outstanding areas worthy of special just its protection, encourage operation of the two existing protection. SCNP is a registered Glencoe – not yet a National Park © courtesy Scottish Natural Heritage integrated planning and and any future National Parks. Scottish charity, No: SC031008. management by all public It will set out criteria against APRS promotes the care of all of cotland’s landscapes rank National Parks, including 60 Manifesto commitment to ‘work bodies, and invest additional which any future National Park Scotland’s rural landscapes. APRS amongst the best in the in Canada, 29 in Norway and with communities to explore national resources to help both should be assessed, and will is a registered Scottish charity, No: world in their richness, 14 in New Zealand, Scotland the creation of new National S residents and visitors make propose seven further areas SC016139. quality and diversity. We have has only two. Another way Parks’. However, as they don’t, the most of the landscape which we consider meet these wild mountains, pristine rivers of looking at it is that, for we’re writing one for them. whilst conserving it for future and lochs, ancient forests example, 20% of Wales and Since 2010 SCNP and APRS generations. National Parks and stunning coastline and 12% of Iceland are designated have been running a joint mostly supplement and add islands, all rich in wildlife as National Parks – yet only 8% project to prepare and promote value to existing designations and history. Our landscapes of Scotland. a strategy for more National rather than duplicate or replace enhance our quality of life The Scottish Campaign for Parks in Scotland. them. Another crucial issue and our well-being; they give National Parks (SCNP) and the ‘National Park’ is the leading is the inherent permanence us inspiration, refreshment Association for the Protection internationally-recognised of National Park designation: and enjoyment. They provide other arrangements may come great opportunities for and go, but National Parks are outdoor recreation, including Scotland, despite its world-class landscapes, rarely abolished. walking, cycling, canoeing and In 1947 the Ramsay Report mountaineering. They are one has only two National Parks recommended five areas of of the main reasons why people Scotland as National Parks, visit Scotland, so they support and in 1990 the former important economic benefits Countryside Commission through tourism, our largest of Rural Scotland (APRS) designation for places of the for Scotland recommended industry. have been campaigning for highest national importance four areas. After lengthy So with landscapes of such National Parks in Scotland for for natural or cultural heritage, pressure from non-government quality you might expect over 60 years. Both bodies including landscape, wildlife organisations, Scotland Scotland to have several feel that more of Scotland’s and recreation. It is the highest eventually joined the National National Parks – the principal landscapes deserve designation accolade which can be given Park family in 2000 when the tool used across the world to as National Parks. We think to a place within its national Scottish Parliament passed safeguard and manage fine that the Scottish Government context. Many are truly wild; the National Parks (Scotland) landscapes. However, although should have a strategy others, as in Scotland, are Act. Scotland was therefore Loch Maree, Wester Ross – a future National Park? © courtesy Scottish Natural Heritage the world has over 3,500 to implement their 2011 wholly or partly lived-in, 22 – ISSUE 16 Spring 2013 – 23 news From the Director Adopt-a-Monument

dopt-a-Monument is relationships with our groups. project. Based in Ross and Protecting Scotland’s archaeology just over a year into It has been very satisfying to Cromarty, ‘Women at War’ Athe five-year scheme work with so many dedicated is a collaborative community through policy work and it has been an action- individuals who volunteer vast engagement project which packed year. We have started amounts of their own time to will support volunteers to s we continue to promote work on our first twenty make their Adopt-a-Monument survey, photograph and record the value of Scotland’s Adopt-a-Monument projects projects a success. We want abandoned buildings related to Aarchaeology by trying to and developed six outreach to take this opportunity to a former World War II airbase. influence policy and legislation we such as the implementation of projects throughout Scotland. thank all of our groups and The project also hopes to have been keeping a close eye on Scotland’s Sustainable Land Use We have also provided seven working partners for making it track down those who served Eurpean matters. This is particularly Strategy – that suggest these issues training workshops to our a fantastic first year. at the base and to record groups on a variety of topics, The Adopt-a-Monument their memories of wartime important in our work in the rural are gradually being addressed. By from ‘An Introduction to family has also grown as we service. Working with Ross- environment where new regulations working through our membership Historical Research’ to ‘Digital welcome Somayyeh Mottaghi shire Women’s Aid and other are being discussed for the £650 of the Built Environment Forum Photography Recording’ to the team on a one-year local charities, the project will million spent annually in support Scotland (BEFS) and Scottish and ‘How to Write Funding placement, funded through the provide active engagement of Scottish farmers and foresters Environment LINK our voice Applications’. We have also CBA community archaeology activities for participants and under the Common Agricultural reaches further as the combined been active at presenting our bursary scheme. Somayyeh help volunteers develop key Policy. Whilst concerns about membership of BEFS and LINK initial results to the rest of the has wasted no time in getting transferable skills. heritage may not be uppermost is over 500,000 people, giving archaeological community and involved in a number of Colin McLean, Head of the in the minds of land managers, consultation responses we produce the team has given papers at projects and has been taking Heritage Lottery Fund Scotland, four national conferences. It’s a lead role in developing one by proposing and supporting and sign up to more influence than has this to say about the been particularly interesting of our new outreach projects, project: “Clearly the success of sustainable practices that still from Archaeology Scotland alone. going south of the border to ‘Playing the Past’. You can keep ‘All Our Stories’ has reinforced maintain farm businesses, we hope In addition to rural concerns, see other examples of exciting up to date with Somayyeh’s the fact that we are indeed we can move towards more holistic a review of historic environment community heritage projects progress through her online a nation of story tellers and systems. policy is being carried out at the taking place, as well as blog accessible from this link: that we want to explore and Our current concerns and same time as the business case highlighting all of the fantastic www.archaeo-life.blogspot. dig deeper into our past and thinking can be seen in Jonathan is being produced for merging community archaeology co.uk. discover more about what really Wordsworth’s Rural Archaeology Historic Scotland and the Royal work which is taking place in We are also delighted to matters to us. This is exactly Bulletins on our website. At present, Commission on the Ancient and Scotland today. announce that we have been what the grant will do for the we are focussing on the need to Historical Monuments of Scotland. We have been overwhelmed successful with our application ‘Women at War’ project as they by the response to the scheme to the Heritage Lottery Fund embark on a real journey of support advisory services with These significant changes are and we have all enjoyed ‘All Our Stories’ initiative for discovery.” dedicated project officers who have being developed in tandem and developing positive working our ‘Women at War’ outreach In the upcoming months expertise in understanding how we have been heavily involved we will continue to work on best to manage our heritage sites. in the process to ensure that our existing projects as well Part of the issue is persuading the what we value most about these as develop new opportunities Scottish Government to provide organisations is not lost. This for you to get actively involved historical environment data to is not an easy task, though, at with your local heritage. You farmers and other land managers present, there is a refreshing can keep up to date with all and to make recognition and engagement with a wide spectrum our news and upcoming events protection of these sites a condition of stakeholders and a willingness by logging on to our website (www.archaeologyscotland.org. of receiving government subsidies. to share aspirations and work uk), checking out our Facebook Beyond this we are hoping to get together. page (Archaeology Scotland) more sites managed by adopting There is an opportunity to and following our Twitter feed sustainable management practices be bold in our thinking of what (@adoptamonument). We are that benefit both wildlife and we want to see for Scotland’s still accepting new projects so if heritage, especially through historic environment and we are you think you have a great idea collaborative landscape projects. keeping the needs of Scotland’s for one, why not get in touch at This is a slow process and difficult archaeology to the forefront of that adopt@archaeologyscotland. ARCHAEOLOGY SCOTLAND NEWS SCOTLAND ARCHAEOLOGY to push at a time of economic vision for the future. org.uk challenges, but there are some Eila Macqueen, Cara Jones, Adopt-a-Monument training workshop on Mull © Archaeology Scotland A-a-M Project Officer encouraging developments – Director 24 – ISSUE 16 Spring 2013 – 25 news Discovery and Excavation in Scotland Education New funding brings a new approach he Learning Team has Expressive Arts. We also want to workers such as East Lothian now expanded by one say thank you to Kate Schaefer, Forest School and Alison Keir new member of staff as who has now left us to return to from Orkney College UHI, as e are delighted to have wrestled with for many T we welcome Ríona McMorrow, the USA, for all her hard work well as through Archaeology say that we have years. The new system will also Project Officer for Heritage on developing two Ancient Scotland’s Youth Workers’ successfully secured provide the option of receiving W Heroes. Her background is in Writing kits. Forum. funding which will assist with a copy of each entry, providing archaeology, having worked The Youth Engagement The Education Officer piloted the continued production of a handy version for use in in the commercial sector for Officer has been working on the new Storytelling Kit with a our flagship journal Discovery other reports or submissions to four years, after which she a third Ancient Writing kit. primary two class at Pirniehall and Excavation in Scotland funding bodies. completed an MA in Heritage The raw materials for creating Primary. The teacher was very and help us explore new Alongside the new form Education and Interpretation. hands-on support materials constructive with feedback and methods of reporting and development, we will be She comes to Archaeology for all of the kits arrived in the a revision of the kit has taken presenting information on creating an interactive, Scotland having worked office in January and all three place and is currently out on current archaeological work in searchable, map-based with the learning team at the kits will be available soon. its first ever loan! In addition, Scotland. webpage displaying information National Library of Ireland In November, the Education Archaeology Scotland now has The ‘From the Ground Up’ on new archaeological sites, and as a Heritage Education Officer and Youth Engagement a Teacher Advisory Panel which project will work in partnership activities and finds as the work freelancer. Officer ran a CPD session on has been busy reviewing some with the Royal Commission is reported. This will display Heritage Heroes is an ‘How to Engage Young People of our online resources and on the Ancient and Historical new archaeological information exciting new project which in Archaeology’ for youth providing feedback. Monuments of Scotland received by us to anyone The webpage will grow and develop as new provides an opportunity workers and heritage groups The Education Officer also information is received and will for pupils to explore their at the Community Heritage took part in the ‘Previously…’ ‘The existence of Discovery and Excavation in Scotland is an also provide links to 65 years local heritage with the Conference in Birnam. We History Festival. Along extraordinarily powerful asset for the Neolithic as for every other aspect of past copies of Discovery help and expertise of local looked at working with and with other members of the of Scottish archaeology’ (Scottish Archaeological Research Framework) and Excavation in Scotland archaeological/heritage creating sessions for youth Heritage Education Forum, we (the last two volumes available groups. Pupils will actively groups, schools and families, contributed a round for the engage with archaeology including ways in which inaugural Schools History Quiz, (RCAHMS) to develop a new accessing the Discovery and exclusively to members as they by surveying, researching Archaeology Scotland can for First and Second year pupils online reporting form for Excavation in Scotland page are published), allowing people and interpreting a local provide support. Following this, in schools across Edinburgh. Discovery and Excavation in on the Archaeology Scotland to search these publications for heritage site. The project the Youth Engagement Officer The event was very successful Scotland. website. Registered users will information about known sites. aims to develop sustainable has been providing advice, and it is hoped to expand it This new online form, which be able to login and access We will be looking for people partnerships between local support and resources to youth next year. is based on the existing paper more detailed information on who are willing to test our community groups and their form, will allow contributors each of the sites. The map will new form, once it has been schools. It will also encourage quickly and simply to submit have options to allow people developed, and would be the sharing of knowledge and Archaeology Reports Online their work for publication in to carry out searches relating to delighted to hear from anyone the greater understanding A new online archaeological publication has been launched by GUARD our journal. We are particularly their particular areas of interest who is interested in becoming of the heritage of their local Archaeology Ltd. pleased to be able to tell our such as types of sites, finds and involved with the project. If area. We are working in South The results of original archaeological fieldwork research will be freely regular contributors that the archaeological remains from you have any questions or would like know more please Lanarkshire for the first year available to download from the Archaeology Reports Online (ARO) new form will automatically particular time periods. Search website – www.archaeologyreportsonline.com. and have already found great populate details of the correct results will also display any contact Paula Milburn at paula. [email protected] enthusiasm for the project ‘An enormous amount of archaeological fieldwork research is local authority and parish submitted images and show undertaken across Scotland,’ says ARO editor Beverley Ballin Smith, at this initial stage from the information when a site grid links to other websites that The project, which will run until ‘but a significant number of such projects struggle to find a publication schools, the local community reference is entered, ending the contain further information such March 2015, is funded by outlet. We aim to provide a quick, cost-effective opportunity for and the council. issues relating to linking sites as RCAHMS and community or the HLF, RCAHMS, Ambition archaeologists to publish the peer-reviewed results of their fieldwork Since October, the learning to parishes that many of you academic research websites. Scotland and Historic Scotland. research.’ section on the website has been The ARO website includes the publication of GUARD Archaeology’s added to with new guides for recent excavation of Soutra Hill, which has revealed this site to be a teachers providing ideas for focal point for a variety of activity during the Early Bronze Age and using archaeology to teach Medieval periods. The ARO website also includes reports on sites where Social Studies at primary new evidence for medieval burial traditions in the Scottish Borders and and secondary level and the Iron Age settlement in the Highland glens has been recovered.

26 – ISSUE 16 Spring 2013 – 27 news Archaeology Scotland Endorsed Insurance Scheme Scottish Archaeology Month owergate Insurance s we gear up for archaeology and heritage. Fareham currently offer this year’s Scottish The Scottish Archaeology Tspecial insurance policies AArchaeology Month in Month programme has covering Public & Products September it looks like 2013 traditionally had something Liability, Employers Liability, promises to be a bumper year to suit all ages and 2013 will Professional Indemnity, Hired-in of events in the build-up to the be no exception. Archaeology Plant and Equipment, Office 2015 Year of Archaeology. Scotland’s artefact investigation Contents including Business The aim this year is to add a kits will be available for groups Interruption, Buildings, Motor affiliated to Archaeology interruption Fleet, Charity Trustees, Legal number of new event types, and to borrow and Scotland. The scheme covers • Professional indemnity Expenses, Directors & Officers such as encouraging private we are looking forward to the a comprehensive suite of insurance Insurance, and many others. products including: estates to host conservation launch of our new website this Please contact Tariq Mian • Directors & officers or days, tours and Ranger-led year. Some of the new features on tel: 01329 228791 or • Public and products charity & trustees indemnity events. Another goal is to add will be a facility for event email tariq.mian@towergate. liability insurance archaeological research as organisers to upload and edit co.uk for further details. He • Personal accident • Legal expenses insurance an event type with possible their events online. has 15 years’ experience of • Employer’s liability • Combined insurance assistance from libraries and Finally this year, we will insuring archaeologists and • All risks equipment cover policies for museums other resource providers. be publicising the events as other heritage risks including • Hired in plant and all risks • Travel insurance ‘Dig Dollar Glen’, 2012 © Archaeology Scotland Although our plans are at early as possible in order to museums. on equipment in the field an early stage, we hope maximise the efforts of all of Archaeology Scotland is The scheme is open to • Building and contents See www.archaeologyuk.org/ insurance and business that 2013 will see a greater our event organisers. Promotion now registering events, visit organisations who are cba/insurance for more info. number of volunteers and will include listing the many www.archaeologyscotland. participants from students and other cultural festivals running org.uk or email sam@ young people who want to with 2013 witnessing a greater archaeologyscotland.org.uk for pursue careers or interests in use of social media. more information. Working where cart systems fear to roll

Utility Detection & Mapping Topographic Geophysical Measured Building Railway & Pipeline Archaeological Laser Scanning Setting Out Boundary Disputes As Built Records UXO Detection Void Detection SUMO Group Member CCTV Statutory Plan Collation

Digging at a SAM event at the Wallace Monument, Stirling, 2012. Directed by Murray Cook, Stirling Council © Archaeology Scotland call : 01684 592266 web : www.stratascan.co.uk 28 – ISSUE 16 Spring 2013 – 29 books

enjoy in any order they wish. This book therefore provides a still I remain unclear why focusing Britain, including Vindolanda and Vikings to Victorians. Starting with an extract of wonderful broad-brush resource on social status with respect to Corbridge. Eye-witnesses to Boece’s account of the Viking that will be revisited time and brooch-wearing is a reduction in Goldberg’s contribution Montrose History raids on the town in 943 AD, again by its readers. It is also meaning – social rank is surely considers people as thinking the book dips into successive a fantastic example of how a about relationships, with a lord, beings and how the ideas that Montrose Basin Heritage Society, centuries up to the inhabitants’ local heritage society can bring with peers and with inferiors. I flowed from thinking were 2012, 192 pp, 34 figs., pbk, reaction to the news of Queen the richness of everyday past also wondered if characterising communicated and acted upon. ISBN 978-0-9574454-0-6 Victoria’s death in 1901. The life, buried within the depths of an individual’s concern with the Such ideologies affected both extracts touch upon matters as archives and obscure written supernatural as ‘private’ is an individuals and communities e are all aware of variant as quaint insights into life, sources, to the general public, understatement of the apotropaic and they have both a past and the rich tapestry of such as the banning of wearing allowing not only a greater aspects of jewellery. Its amuletic a present dimension. This is a historic development wigs on the Sabbath by the Kirk understanding of how one town’s function articulates ideas about bold chapter with a desire to W Session in 1689, Dr Johnston’s people are essentially the same that has shaped our towns over calling on God for protection or think afresh but in places it is the centuries, often illustrated disgust in 1773 at the waiter at no matter when they lived, but more directly diverting evil forces rather vague, stemming from an through their physical buildings, the inn he was staying at using also showing how that town and with their complex designs. As over-generalisation of some big parks and memorials. However his fingers to drop a lump of its people has played its part these were shared ideas, held in themes and by some unsupported it is the everyday dweller in sugar into his lemonade, and through our nation’s history. common, I am not sure of the interpretation. Thus, ‘North the hunting scene that surrounds those towns that truly makes a Queen Victoria’s amusement Reviewed by Bruce Mann utility of labelling them as private. Britain’ is used misleadingly as an her and there are actually two at a lady whose dress became It overlooks the fact that private, equivalent term to just Scotland; riders, side-by-side. This second place what it is, and this gem Available from local bookstores entangled with the spur of the personal devotion always had there is an implied assumption element is surely not credible as a of a book amply reveals and and by post from MBHS, PO Box gallant commander of the militia an audience – a supernatural that regionality in Christian belief depiction of or even a reference celebrates such everyday life 7179, Montrose DD10 8WU. while welcoming her during one. Nevertheless the chapter is is an artefact only of not being to Christ entering Jerusalem. made extraordinary over its £8.99 + £3.00 p&p (UK) See her brief visit in 1857, to more a lively, penetrating discussion subject to Roman authority and Alongside the shortage of thousand-year span for one town www.montrosehistory.com for poignant events such as Reverend that mainstreams some key issues allied to this is a rather simplistic cross-referencing, the use of the in particular, that of Montrose in more details. Angus. James Brewster’s account of a including dress and adornment, binary opposition around Roman term chrismatory to mean both, The authors of this book cholera outbreak in 1833, and public and ‘private’ self- Empire and outwith Roman incorrectly, a box in which to have spent numerous years the impact of civil war in 1644. expression and health and belief, Empire. It misleadingly describes store the Holy Eucharist (p.38) researching individual projects The texts used are a mixture as experienced by individuals in the Dupplin (or Constantine’s) and, correctly, a box in which to in and around this important sea of both contemporary and the community. Cross as having ogham on its store Holy Oils (p. 90) and some port and medieval Royal Burgh. secondary sources, some of Clarke’s chapter broadens base and does not evidence its confusing heading lay-outs, all As a by-product of this research which have been published the framework into a social assertion that the four rivers of add up to a sense that a final various accidental discoveries elsewhere, while others have not perspective to try to engage paradise are shown springing editorial hand was missing in have been made of accounts been seen before or originate with a range of secular and from the centre of the spiral making sure everything gelled of local events that encompass from books with limited print runs religious communities. It groups panel on the Hilton cross-slab. I together fully. One of the more everything from the momentous that are now extremely difficult to these around four senses of have not seen any evidence for surprising oversights in a book to the trivial, and even the get hold of. The essence of the community: place, craft, the an intentional ‘oblique facet’ on avowing more fully to capture amusing. The sources range chosen material, though, clearly wider world and memory. Place the back left bottom corner of how communities and individuals from Kirk Session papers, court demonstrates that the themes and craft are straightforward but Aberlemno No. 3 – only later lived is the neglect of recreation records and newspaper articles affecting the average person in the wider world and memory are erosion and a surface break. and leisure pursuits – a short to personal letters, diaries and the past – employment, family, much more diffuse categories, Part of the book’s strong excursus on hunting (p. 80–83) wills, with the most interesting health, anti-social behaviour, in that it is difficult to see appeal lies in the contrasting and a footnote to chapter 3 highlights presented in this book declining values and criminal how these can be posited as but reinforcing and overlapping (no. 18) that hints at the use of as a collection for the reader to activity – are as relevant today as communities. This is not to doubt themes built around the same gaming pieces do not do the at any point in history. their importance as strands of body of evidence. That said there subject justice. community life in early modern is a noticeable lack of cross- In the final analysis these flaws are outweighed by a book that Early Medieval Scotland: Scotland. Articulating these referencing within the book. For the exploration of the social Blackwell’s contribution frames themes as threads in the texture example, all three authors refer has high ambition, enthusiastic Individuals, Communities archaeology of early medieval its timescale at the level of human of community life would perhaps to the Hilton of Cadboll cross- articulation and a welcome focus and Ideas Scotland. A presumably tri- experience rather than a much have helped tighten and direct slab but do not acknowledge on objects and their human the focus. This chapter includes each other’s variance. It is most relationships. It raises some David Clarke, Alice Blackwell authored introduction outlines longer-term chronology, focusing the aim and structure of the on what she calls ‘people-sized a very persuasive interpretation marked around Goldberg’s bold neglected issues within studies and Martin Goldberg. 2012. of shrine panels and some identification of an Adventus of early medieval Scotland, NMS Enterprises – Publishing book: to show how archaeology blocks of time – a childhood, a enables a fuller understanding lifetime, a generation’ (p. xv). cross-slabs as elements of church theme in Pictish sculpture. It is including gender, childhood (Edinburgh). 256pp + xx; 200 of the past in the context of early Through this perspective she screens (though I remain unclear an attractive idea that adds a and memory and contributes illus. ISBN 978 1 905267 63 7. medieval Scotland (defined as seeks to illuminate something of as to how the upper tenons on useful strand to the polysemic groundwork for future research. H/B, £30.00. AD 300–900). It is followed the vast range of associations some cross-slabs would have vocabulary of the sculpture, A final word of praise should go by three contrasting chapters: and meanings that objects have worked as screen fittings). The though I question its applicability to the Glenmorangie Company account overlooks the presence to the Hilton main rider: this for their support of the book and his handsomely produced ‘Individuals’, ‘Communities’ for individuals in the past. It is a and ‘Ideas and Ideology’ by lively and compelling read. Whilst of such screen technology as probable female rider (confirmed the ground-breaking project from book provides a provocative part of the architecture visible by her centrally placed brooch?) which it stems. and stimulating read Blackwell, Clarke and Goldberg I agree that social status is not T respectively. the only avenue of interpretation, in several Roman forts in north is surely thoroughly enmeshed in Reviewed by Mark A Hall and is an original addition to 30 – ISSUE 16 Spring 2013 – 31 Archaeology Scotland Summer School 2013

Nairn 17–20 May 2013

Hopefully the snow will have gone, and bookings are now open for the 2013 Summer School which will be based in Nairn.

Full information and a registration form may be obtained from Archaeology Scotland via: telephone – 0845 872 3333 e-mail – [email protected] or from our website – www.archaeologyscotland.org.uk