History in the making as project appeals for help
Findings will be published online for everyone to explore
Help record forgotten archaeology and stories between Larkhall, Law and the historic Clyde Walkway this summer by volunteering with CAVLP Heritage.
The pathways pass a variety of historic sites and archaeology from mining heritage along the Monkey Road and Skellyton Farm, to the designed landscape of the long since demolished Mauldslie Castle.
Research will be uploaded to the Clyde and Avon Valley Museum, for all to explore and enjoy at www. clydeandavonvalley.org.
Taking place in June and July this year, the project is connected to the Clyde Walkway Community Links project that has improved paths linking the communities of Rosebank, Ashgill, Dalserf, Larkhall, Law, Crossford, Nemphlar and Braidwood with the Clyde Walkway.
Although the initial part of the project focusses on Larkhall, Law and the Clyde Walkway, CAVLP Heritage hope that training offered will allow volunteers to research and record other sites on their own accord thereafter.
Volunteers of all ages and abilities are being asked to get involved in the project which provides them with free training in fields including photography, archaeological surveying, oral history recording, creative map making and reporting.
CAVLP heritage officer Dr Paul Murtagh said: “By focusing our volunteer opportunities on these improved paths we will be able to explore the archaeology of parts of the landscape that are now more easily accessible thanks to Community Links project.
“We hope that by working alongside volunteers to record the important archaeology along these routes, visitors to the Clyde and Avon Valley will gain a richer experience and see how the past has shaped the landscape we use and enjoy today.”
He continues: “By helping us record the archaeology along the paths, helping us to photograph the interesting places along them and capturing people’s memories of working and living in the area, volunteers will be actively contributing to the experiences of the communities that use and enjoy the upgraded Community Links paths.”
The free archaeological training is part of a wider project, Capturing the Past, which is funded by the Heritage Lottery Fund supported Clyde and Avon Valley Landscape Partnership (CAVLP) and Historic Environment Scotland, and managed by Northlight Heritage.
The project seeks to research and record a variety of local sites of archaeological interest, so there are a plethora of opportunities to get involved in numerous sites of archaeological interest throughout the Clyde and Avon valleys.
Sites researched so far include Hoolet Row at Chatelherault Country Park, St Ninian’s Kirkyard in Stonehouse and Mcivor’s Bedding Plants in Craignethan Glen.
Donna Marshall, CAVLP programme manager, said: “This is a fantastic opportunity for people interested in getting involved in local history and heritage.
“No matter how much or little time you are able to contribute, we are urging people to sign up and help us uncover the stories of the landscape that make the Clyde and Avon valley unique.”
A series of free, handson learning opportunities relating to the historical working lives of people in the Clyde and Avon valleys are also available from the CAVLP Heritage team and run concurrently with the Capturing the until August.
Tasting Through Time, Sheep to Shawl and Brick by Brick courses explore the agricultural, horticultural and industrial heritage unique to the area.
Designed to fit in with the Curriculum for Excellence, Duke of Edinburgh and John Muir Awards as well as Badge Activities for Guides, Scout and the Boys and Girls Brigade, courses can be tailored to meet the needs of any age group and ability and can last between two and four hours.
For more details on the workshops for adults and children, and to book a place, call 01555 661555 or email Paul and Karen at cavlp. heritage@hmail.com. Past project