Campaign for Metal Detecting in the Republic Of Ireland

Transcription

1 Campaign for Metal Detecting in the Republic Of Ireland Why people go metal detecting? There are many reasons why people are attracted to the hobby of metal detecting, for some it is a passion for history coupled with an eagerness to take an active part in learning more about our cultural history. For others it may just simply be an enjoyable day out at the beach coin shooting in the fresh air and a good opportunity to take in some exercise. Whatever the reason it is all in the thrill of the find and not necessarily what they find that mostly holds peoples interests Metal detecting has proved to be a hugely enjoyable and popular international pastime that improves both mental and physical well being through a natural form of exercise. It is enjoyed by the young, middle aged, old, able bodied, infirm and less abled bodies alike. It can be enjoyed individually or socially and is an excellent opportunity to meet new friends with similar interests. What to expect whilst metal detecting in Ireland. The greatest fallacy of all about metal detecting in Ireland is that all detectorists are solely intent on raiding the lost cultural treasures from our past. In reality nothing could be further from the truth. Whether inland or beach detecting the majority of what the average metal detector finds will be junk items. Some of the many examples being, aluminium cans, bottle tops, tin, can pull rings, nails, crumpled tin foil, confectionary wrappers and other assorted contemporary metallic junk items and it is our responsibility to also collect and dispose of these rubbish items in the correct manner whilst going about our hobby. In realistic terms there is very little silver or gold treasure to be found anywhere in any country and Ireland is no exception. Such finds are extremely rare even in countries where the hobby of metal detecting is a hugely popular past time, widely promoted and carried out in large numbers in organised group digs and rallies. Gold is and has always been in high demand and as such it has always been securely kept throughout the ages, melted down, reshaped and recycled as a continued usable and valuable commodity amongst the elite and privileged few. People were not in the habit of burying it underground and forgetting about it. More typical interesting finds will relate to what the common people of Ireland would have used and lost from their person over the ages which amount to in most cases practical everyday utility objects. Contrary to what people may assume, Ireland does not have a history steeped in lavish wealth and riches and the vast majority of people lived in poverty and farmed the surrounding land as working class folk. The vast majority just did not have gold coins (or wear expensive jewellery) when farming the land by hand in the first place. So

2 Campaign for Metal Detecting in the Republic Of Ireland Why people go metal detecting? There are many reasons why people are attracted to the hobby of metal detecting, for some it is a passion for history coupled with an eagerness to take an active part in learning more about our cultural history. For others it may just simply be an enjoyable day out at the beach coin shooting in the fresh air and a good opportunity to take in some exercise. Whatever the reason it is all in the thrill of the find and not necessarily what they find that mostly holds peoples interests Metal detecting has proved to be a hugely enjoyable and popular international pastime that improves both mental and physical well being through a natural form of exercise. It is enjoyed by the young, middle aged, old, able bodied, infirm and less abled bodies alike. It can be enjoyed individually or socially and is an excellent opportunity to meet new friends with similar interests. What to expect whilst metal detecting in Ireland. The greatest fallacy of all about metal detecting in Ireland is that all detectorists are solely intent on raiding the lost cultural treasures from our past. In reality nothing could be further from the truth. Whether inland or beach detecting the majority of what the average metal detector finds will be junk items. Some of the many examples being, aluminium cans, bottle tops, tin, can pull rings, nails, crumpled tin foil, confectionary wrappers and other assorted contemporary metallic junk items and it is our responsibility to also collect and dispose of these rubbish items in the correct manner whilst going about our hobby. In realistic terms there is very little silver or gold treasure to be found anywhere in any country and Ireland is no exception. Such finds are extremely rare even in countries where the hobby of metal detecting is a hugely popular past time, widely promoted and carried out in large numbers in organised group digs and rallies. Gold is and has always been in high demand and as such it has always been securely kept throughout the ages, melted down, reshaped and recycled as a continued usable and valuable commodity amongst the elite and privileged few. People were not in the habit of burying it underground and forgetting about it. More typical interesting finds will relate to what the common people of Ireland would have used and lost from their person over the ages which amount to in most cases practical everyday utility objects. Contrary to what people may assume, Ireland does not have a history steeped in lavish wealth and riches and the vast majority of people lived in poverty and farmed the surrounding land as working class folk. The vast majority just did not have gold coins (or wear expensive jewellery) when farming the land by hand in the first place. So

3 it stands to reason that any such items are simply not there in any great quantities. Notwithstanding the possibility however that some precious items may indeed be there to be discovered so it is absolutely vital that there is a system is in place whereby the finder can immediately report it via the proper channels so it can be properly and professionally processed without any fear of incrimination to both the finder and the land owner. You are however more likely to find old copper coins, tokens, buttons, buckles, various styles of clothes fasteners, thimbles, keys, seals, weights, strap ends, belt mounts and other such every day practical items from different age s made from lead, bronze, copper alloy, pewter and tombac. Although these are of little or no monetary value there is still much to be learned from the craftsmanship, purpose and stories behind these objects. These are fragments of our history which are otherwise (and undoubtedly have been) lost to progress and new build developments. These items are continuously ploughed back into our soil time and time again by unaware farmers where they will eventually be damaged beyond recognition, dissipated and finally lost forever. It is also possible to find hammered coin s predating contemporary milled coins but again it is not so common. Even so these coins are not particularly valuable. Throughout history, coins were usually made in large enough quantities for the needs of commerce. Since coins are rarely tossed away or destroyed, many coins have survived the passage of time. In some countries in Europe, coins used to circulate for 200 years or more. Generally these old coins are much worn and since collectors look for high grade examples, they usually aren't worth very much money having been underground for hundreds of years and being in such poor condition. It is also entirely possible to find lost gold jewellery at beach but you are more likely to just find enough Euros for a cup of coffee and plenty of rubbish items as already listed. Successful metal detecting policies in other countries: In the United Kingdom for example all metal detecting finds are submitted to and carefully recorded by the British Museum on a data base called the portable antiquities scheme (PAS). This is available on line for all to access anytime There is no better example of how the hobby of metal detecting can benefit, contribute and compliment archaeology when regulated sensibly. Any items declared as treasure are retained by the museum and the finder is rewarded following an appraisal. Finders will then evenly split any potential rewards with the landowner and the museum gets to add and display another precious artefact. To this end our association will endeavour to do our best and to work with and engage all law makers to bring about a fairer and inclusive system that meets the needs of detectorists and archaeologists alike. We already know that this cooperation is entirely possible as it has

4 proven to be most successful in other Countries. We wish to seek the same access to public parks, forests, beaches and all such state lands to enjoy our hobby as others have to engage in their chosen hobbies. It is our firm belief that the present laws relating to metal detecting in Ireland stop short and have done very little to discourage any illegal practice in the recovery of archaeological artefacts. On the contrary they may in fact have further contributed to the concealment of important historical finds and knowledge. Our immediate aim: To establish a recognised official Metal Detecting Association under a formal regulated code of conduct for all enlisted members to adhere to at all times. All members will carry an official identification card and will also be covered for public liability insurance. The objective: 1. To seek amendments to present restrictive legislation for the individual use of metal detectors in Ireland in agreed designated area s only. Such area s to include state lands, private lands, beaches and coastal areas. These localities must be outside the present boundaries of all listed monuments and areas of historical and cultural importance in strict accordance with the present legislation in relation to same. 2. To establish proper guidelines and clear interpretations of such boundary lines 3. To establish a more exact definition of what constitutes an archaeological object in relation to more contemporary objects 4. To set in place public antiquities finds data base to record and identify all finds and find spots of potentially historic importance to facilitate for further archaeological research if deemed necessary. Not only to be exclusive to finds by way of metal detecting and one whereby the finder get credited for the find. 5. To work in conjunction with and fully cooperate with the relevant bodies via approved and nominated finds liaison officers (FLO s) Purpose: 1. Clarity and transparency for the hobby of metal detecting in Ireland. 2. To encourage and promote responsible metal detecting at all times and assist in eliminating any potential bad element within the hobby and to raise consciousness among the general public, authorities, and landowners about the mechanisms of illegal metal detector use and its negative effects. 3. To promote the need to protect and respect our cultural heritage. 4. To establish, encourage and promote good relations between amateur detectorists and all the expert archaeological fraternities in Ireland

5 5. To salvage, preserve and document the portable antiquities and assist in the recovery of historical items. It is our belief that increased use of metal detectors by amateurs in order to search for and retrieve finds can lead to a growth in collective archaeological knowledge and ultimately better care of our cultural heritage. Moreover we further believe that these positive effects can mainly be achieved by collecting those finds of metal which are located in ploughed land, documenting, managing, and caring for them, and making them available to archaeologists, the Museum, general public and to researchers instead of letting them suffer the negative degrading effects of agricultural work and various chemical substances over time whilst acidification and pollution accelerate the decomposition process. Associations code of conduct: A Code of Practice on Responsible Metal Detecting in the Republic Of Ireland Being responsible means: Before you go metal-detecting 1. Do not trespass; before you start detecting obtain permission to search from the Landowner/occupier, regardless of the status, or perceived status, of the land. Remember that all land has an owner. To avoid subsequent disputes it is always advisable to get permission and if possible a full agreement in writing first. 2. Adhering to the laws concerning protected sites e.g. those defined as area s deemed of archaeological importance and/or historic monuments. It is illegal for anyone to use a metal detector in a protected area without permission from the appropriate authority. For a detailed up to date map location s of same please visit: For detailed information on protected parks and area s please visit: Take extra care when detecting in the vicinity of protected sites: for example, it is not always clear where the boundaries lie on the ground. 3. You are strongly recommended to familiarise yourself with all present legislation, sections 1-27 of the National Monuments (Amendments) Act 1987 a summary of which will be detailed on the back of your AMDAI membership card. For full details please visit: Sections 1 24 of the National Monuments (Amendments) Act 1994

6 4. Possible payment reward to a person finding an archaeological object as set out in section 10 of the National Monuments (Amendments) Act 1994 is subject to the Director s discretion. It is good practice to make prior written agreement with the landowner/occupier in the event that such an object is discovered and a reward is deemed payable for reason of avoiding any possible disputes to future claim. While you are metal-detecting 5. Whenever searching on ground that has already been disturbed (such as ploughed land or that which has formerly been ploughed), do so only within the depth of the ploughing. If detecting takes place on undisturbed pasture, be careful to ensure that no damage is done to the land. 6. Minimise any ground disturbance through the use of suitable tools and by reinstating any excavated material as neatly as possible. Never leave a mess or an unsafe surface. It is perfectly simple to remove small objects buried a few inches below the ground without digging an excessively large hole. Use a suitable digging implement to cut a neat flap (do not remove the plug or earth entirely from the ground). Extract the object; reinstate the grass, sand or soil carefully so even you would have difficulty in locating the finds spot again. It is not necessary to use digging implements (long handled spades or shovels) in short grass park or lawn areas. A small hand tool is sufficient to cut and pop a small flap and should be used in conjunction with a drop cloth to catch any extracted soil so all can be replaced neatly and exactly as was. 7. Respect the Country Code at all times by leaving gates and property as you find them and do not damage crops, frighten animals, or disturb ground nesting birds. 8. Help keep Ireland tidy and safely dispose of all refuse you come across up to and including any metallic junk objects you dig. Such items are especially hazardous to live stock 9. Never miss an opportunity to explain your hobby to anyone who asks about it. 10. Be considerate when detecting, observe all codes and stay within the law. Remember when you are out with your detector you are an ambassador or our hobby. Do nothing that might give it a bad name. After you have been metal-detecting 11. Report all finds to the relevant landowner/occupier. 12. You are obliged to immediately report all historical finds and antiquities to the Gardai and/or the archaeology department of the National Museum of Ireland. Contact information is as follow: Tel:

7 13. Calling the Gardai, and notifying the landowner/occupier, if you find any traces of human remains. 14. Calling the Gardai, and notifying the landowner/occupier, if you find anything that may be a live explosive. Do not attempt to move or interfere with any such explosives.

8 it stands to reason that any such items are simply not there in any great quantities. Notwithstanding the possibility however that some precious items may indeed be there to be discovered so it is absolutely vital that there is a system is in place whereby the finder can immediately report it via the proper channels so it can be properly and professionally processed without any fear of incrimination to both the finder and the land owner. You are however more likely to find old copper coins, tokens, buttons, buckles, various styles of clothes fasteners, thimbles, keys, seals, weights, strap ends, belt mounts and other such every day practical items from different age s made from lead, bronze, copper alloy, pewter and tombac. Although these are of little or no monetary value there is still much to be learned from the craftsmanship, purpose and stories behind these objects. These are fragments of our history which are otherwise (and undoubtedly have been) lost to progress and new build developments. These items are continuously ploughed back into our soil time and time again by unaware farmers where they will eventually be damaged beyond recognition, dissipated and finally lost forever. It is also possible to find hammered coin s predating contemporary milled coins but again it is not so common. Even so these coins are not particularly valuable. Throughout history, coins were usually made in large enough quantities for the needs of commerce. Since coins are rarely tossed away or destroyed, many coins have survived the passage of time. In some countries in Europe, coins used to circulate for 200 years or more. Generally these old coins are much worn and since collectors look for high grade examples, they usually aren't worth very much money having been underground for hundreds of years and being in such poor condition. It is also entirely possible to find lost gold jewellery at beach but you are more likely to just find enough Euros for a cup of coffee and plenty of rubbish items as already listed. Successful metal detecting policies in other countries: In the United Kingdom for example all metal detecting finds are submitted to and carefully recorded by the British Museum on a data base called the portable antiquities scheme (PAS). This is available on line for all to access anytime There is no better example of how the hobby of metal detecting can benefit, contribute and compliment archaeology when regulated sensibly. Any items declared as treasure are retained by the museum and the finder is rewarded following an appraisal. Finders will then evenly split any potential rewards with the landowner and the museum gets to add and display another precious artefact. To this end our association will endeavour to do our best and to work with and engage all law makers to bring about a fairer and inclusive system that meets the needs of detectorists and archaeologists alike. We already know that this cooperation is entirely possible as it has

9 proven to be most successful in other Countries. We wish to seek the same access to public parks, forests, beaches and all such state lands to enjoy our hobby as others have to engage in their chosen hobbies. It is our firm belief that the present laws relating to metal detecting in Ireland stop short and have done very little to discourage any illegal practice in the recovery of archaeological artefacts. On the contrary they may in fact have further contributed to the concealment of important historical finds and knowledge. Our immediate aim: To establish a recognised official Metal Detecting Association under a formal regulated code of conduct for all enlisted members to adhere to at all times. All members will carry an official identification card and will also be covered for public liability insurance. The objective: 1. To seek amendments to present restrictive legislation for the individual use of metal detectors in Ireland in agreed designated area s only. Such area s to include state lands, private lands, beaches and coastal areas. These localities must be outside the present boundaries of all listed monuments and areas of historical and cultural importance in strict accordance with the present legislation in relation to same. 2. To establish proper guidelines and clear interpretations of such boundary lines 3. To establish a more exact definition of what constitutes an archaeological object in relation to more contemporary objects 4. To set in place public antiquities finds data base to record and identify all finds and find spots of potentially historic importance to facilitate for further archaeological research if deemed necessary. Not only to be exclusive to finds by way of metal detecting and one whereby the finder get credited for the find. 5. To work in conjunction with and fully cooperate with the relevant bodies via approved and nominated finds liaison officers (FLO s) Purpose: 1. Clarity and transparency for the hobby of metal detecting in Ireland. 2. To encourage and promote responsible metal detecting at all times and assist in eliminating any potential bad element within the hobby and to raise consciousness among the general public, authorities, and landowners about the mechanisms of illegal metal detector use and its negative effects. 3. To promote the need to protect and respect our cultural heritage. 4. To establish, encourage and promote good relations between amateur detectorists and all the expert archaeological fraternities in Ireland

10 5. To salvage, preserve and document the portable antiquities and assist in the recovery of historical items. It is our belief that increased use of metal detectors by amateurs in order to search for and retrieve finds can lead to a growth in collective archaeological knowledge and ultimately better care of our cultural heritage. Moreover we further believe that these positive effects can mainly be achieved by collecting those finds of metal which are located in ploughed land, documenting, managing, and caring for them, and making them available to archaeologists, the Museum, general public and to researchers instead of letting them suffer the negative degrading effects of agricultural work and various chemical substances over time whilst acidification and pollution accelerate the decomposition process. Associations code of conduct: A Code of Practice on Responsible Metal Detecting in the Republic Of Ireland Being responsible means: Before you go metal-detecting 1. Do not trespass; before you start detecting obtain permission to search from the Landowner/occupier, regardless of the status, or perceived status, of the land. Remember that all land has an owner. To avoid subsequent disputes it is always advisable to get permission and if possible a full agreement in writing first. 2. Adhering to the laws concerning protected sites e.g. those defined as area s deemed of archaeological importance and/or historic monuments. It is illegal for anyone to use a metal detector in a protected area without permission from the appropriate authority. For a detailed up to date map location s of same please visit: For detailed information on protected parks and area s please visit: Take extra care when detecting in the vicinity of protected sites: for example, it is not always clear where the boundaries lie on the ground. 3. You are strongly recommended to familiarise yourself with all present legislation, sections 1-27 of the National Monuments (Amendments) Act 1987 a summary of which will be detailed on the back of your AMDAI membership card. For full details please visit: Sections 1 24 of the National Monuments (Amendments) Act 1994

11 4. Possible payment reward to a person finding an archaeological object as set out in section 10 of the National Monuments (Amendments) Act 1994 is subject to the Director s discretion. It is good practice to make prior written agreement with the landowner/occupier in the event that such an object is discovered and a reward is deemed payable for reason of avoiding any possible disputes to future claim. While you are metal-detecting 5. Whenever searching on ground that has already been disturbed (such as ploughed land or that which has formerly been ploughed), do so only within the depth of the ploughing. If detecting takes place on undisturbed pasture, be careful to ensure that no damage is done to the land. 6. Minimise any ground disturbance through the use of suitable tools and by reinstating any excavated material as neatly as possible. Never leave a mess or an unsafe surface. It is perfectly simple to remove small objects buried a few inches below the ground without digging an excessively large hole. Use a suitable digging implement to cut a neat flap (do not remove the plug or earth entirely from the ground). Extract the object; reinstate the grass, sand or soil carefully so even you would have difficulty in locating the finds spot again. It is not necessary to use digging implements (long handled spades or shovels) in short grass park or lawn areas. A small hand tool is sufficient to cut and pop a small flap and should be used in conjunction with a drop cloth to catch any extracted soil so all can be replaced neatly and exactly as was. 7. Respect the Country Code at all times by leaving gates and property as you find them and do not damage crops, frighten animals, or disturb ground nesting birds. 8. Help keep Ireland tidy and safely dispose of all refuse you come across up to and including any metallic junk objects you dig. Such items are especially hazardous to live stock 9. Never miss an opportunity to explain your hobby to anyone who asks about it. 10. Be considerate when detecting, observe all codes and stay within the law. Remember when you are out with your detector you are an ambassador or our hobby. Do nothing that might give it a bad name. After you have been metal-detecting 11. Report all finds to the relevant landowner/occupier. 12. You are obliged to immediately report all historical finds and antiquities to the Gardai and/or the archaeology department of the National Museum of Ireland. Contact information is as follow: Tel:

12 13. Calling the Gardai, and notifying the landowner/occupier, if you find any traces of human remains. 14. Calling the Gardai, and notifying the landowner/occupier, if you find anything that may be a live explosive. Do not attempt to move or interfere with any such explosives.