History in the making
Help build a Medieval kiln
Volunteers are being sought to help build a medieval kiln at Chatelherault Country Park this autumn.
History buffs can get their hands dirty and celebrate the brick and tile making industry in the Clyde and Avon Valley.
The Clyde and Avon Valley Landscape Partnership (CAVLP) heritage team are behind the project that will take place on Saturday and Sunday, September 24 and 25.
Karen Mccusker, CAVLP heritage project assistant, said: “The clay industry in the Clyde and Avon Valley had such an impact on the lay of the land.
“We can see evidence of clay extraction sites and historic kilns in the local archaeology demonstrating the legacy of brickworks throughout the valley.
“It is very important that this rich heritage is given the attention it deserves.”
The kiln building at Chatelherault Country Park will start at 10.30am on both days. Volunteers will meet in front of the visitor’s centre.
They will be given the opportunity to help with the construction of the kiln, the preparation of the medieval tiles and will be given an insider’s experience into the widespread industry of the Middle Ages.
The work done by the volunteers will be integral to celebrating the brick and tile making industry in the Clyde and Avon Valley.
To celebrate the early industries of the Clyde and Avon Valleys, which had an enormous impact on the local landscape, CAVLP are organising a ‘Fire Night’ at Chatelherault.
Including a medieval kiln fire, bronze smelting and iron smelting demonstrations among its attractions, the event will explore the development of the brick and tile industries, as well as the precursors to the steel industry that so dramatically affected the local area right up until the modern day.
Donna Marshall, manager of CAVLP, said: “This exciting volunteer collaboration project is a wonderful addition to the range of hands-on learning opportunities we have been able to offer locally through our Heritage Lottery Fund supported programme.
“This project will be a great showcase for how experimental archaeology can transform our ability to understand the industries of past societies.”
To get involved, contact cavlp.heritage@gmail. com or at 01555 661 555. Booking is essential.
The clay industry had such an impact