An autumn archaeological excavation at Threave Estate has unearthed centuries-old finds revealing clues about the past.
Can You Dig It volunteers discovered a medieval lead spindle whorl, post-medieval lead pistol balls and the remains of a metal triple bell decoration from a horse harness.
Threave owners the National Trust partnered the Can you Dig It event, the latest in a two-year series of archaeological discovery days run by the Galloway Glens to connect local people to their heritage.
Archaeological volunteers test-pitting for finds close to the site of Meiklewood Hill were joined by teams of experienced local metal detectorists, with the aim of understanding more about the people who once lived there.
Derek Alexander, head of archaeological services for National Trust for Scotland, said: “The archaeological fieldwork focussed on areas of the Threave Estate that are proposed for habitat improvement work and proved to be an excellent community partnership event.
“Over the years we have gradually built up a better understanding of where and how people lived and worked at Threave throughout history, and indeed prehistory, and the recent discoveries have added to that knowledge. It is really important that we continue to look for archaeological evidence outside the confines of the usual power centres, such as medieval castles and Iron Age hillforts, if we are to get a more nuanced understanding of the Scottish landscape through time.”
The dig was also chosen by Dig It Scotland to be one of their sites photographed by artists looking to bring a sideways view on archaeological finds.
Artist and photographer Dr Chris Dooks joined the team and created some other-worldly images of long-buried items.
McNabb Laurie, Galloway Glens team leader, added: “Having the National Trust for Scotland’s Threave host Dig It Scotland’s artistic project as well as the archaeological volunteers was a fantastic experience for all involved.”
