Summer dig reveals servant's life
Dig it! has revealed some of the moments during the summer when community led archaeologists excavated the Cottages at Cammo Estate.
This was one of Edinburgh's grandest mansions. Volunteers discovered items like tonic and perfume bottles, false teeth, cooking equipment. All of these have been reimagined by Glasgow-based illustrator Miranda Stuart, and Edinburgh-based illustrator Sara Julia Campbell has contributed to a series to illustrate the Summer 2020 dig season.
The artefacts uncovered were owned by housekeeper/cook, 70 year-old Margaret Wright. She remained behind when the family embarked on a world tour in 1911.
The reason we know this is that she was the only person named in the 1911 census as living on the estate. She came from Monymusk in Aberdeenshire and died there in 2015.
Christine McPherson from the Edinburgh Archaeological Field Society, (EAFS) said: “This has been a great way for our Society to take archaeology out into a public space and show the passing public our enthusiasm for the history and archaeology of the Estate. We offer taster sessions and training for those interested. Those of our members who are unable to physically excavate have been excavating in the records of the Estate and using the internet to research information on our finds.”
Dr Jeff Sanders, Project
Manager at the Society of Antiquaries of Scotland’s
Dig It! project, said: “Scottish archaeology is all about discovering Scotland’s stories and these are the chapters of people’s lives that we sometimes forget about, but that archaeology is uniquely placed to write. Scotland’s Archaeology Strategy emphasises that remains, such as the ones that have been uncovered this year, connect us to the people in the past and we believe that the work of these groups and digital artists have helped to strengthen that connection this summer.”
Amy Eastwood, Head of Grants at Historic Environment Scotland, said: “The Scotland Digs Digital campaign was a fantastic way to engage people with Scotland’s heritage while sharing stories and updates from the archaeology community during a time when a lot of archaeological work throughout the country was put on hold. We are pleased to support the invaluable work being carried out by archaeology groups throughout the country and encourage members of the public to take part in open days, events and tours to find out more about these exciting discoveries and how they help our understanding of Scotland’s past.”
EAFS plans to continue excavating when it is safe to do so.
DigItScotland.com