Herald Express (Torbay, Brixham & South Hams Edition)
Archaeological dig uncovers link to famous US family
TELEVISION archaeologists have been digging into the past of a South Hams village, unearthing an unusual connection to the United States.
Time Team collaborated with local residents, volunteers and community organisations to unearth the rich history of Modbury, a community nestled in South Devon’s stunning Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty.
Under the guidance of finds specialist Dani Wootton and presenter Gus Casely-Hayford, Time Team embarked on a three-day excavation to uncover Modbury’s medieval origins, its role in the English Civil War, and its intriguing overseas connections to an iconic American brand.
The event showcased the pioneering use of geophysics and 3D digital modelling of artefacts and finds, adding a new dimension to archaeological exploration.
And in something new for this particular dig, Time Team followed American Jim Stetson on his ancestral journey to Modbury. As the descendant of the famed Stetson hat creators, Mr Stetson’s quest to trace his roots brought him to Modbury, where he uncovered remarkable connections to his past. Reflecting on his journey, he said: “Discovering my roots in Modbury has been an incredible experience, and being part of this excavation has deepened my connection to my ancestral home. It’s a remarkable journey through time.”
Time Team series producer and creator Tim Taylor said: “Working with a small village like Modbury to uncover the past was a real pleasure for Time Team.
“With many of the villagers getting involved, and a special guest visitor from the Stetson family in America, we had a fantastic weekend and we hope this will encourage the community to continue to keep looking into the secrets of their past.”
Modbury resident Rosemary Parker, a member of the Modbury History Society, described Time Team’s visit as a “wonderful opportunity for residents to delve into the past” and “reveal hidden secrets of our ancient and beautiful town”.
The completed episode premiered worldwide in a threepart release on the Time Team YouTube channel last week, with each day of the dig premiering consecutively over the Friday, Saturday and Sunday.
The episode featured a stellar line-up of Time Team regulars, including Carenza Lewis, John Gater, Stewart Ainsworth, and Helen Geake, alongside Devon buildings expert Richard Parker and genealogist Sophie Kay.
Time Team has a busy year ahead following the announcement of a landmark project in collaboration with the National Trust to dig at Sutton Hoo throughout June. Fans can also look forward to a three-part episode investigating an Iron Age site near Corfe Castle, Dorset.
For more than 30 years Time Team has captivated audiences worldwide with its informative and witty explorations of history and archaeology with supporters funding excavations like in Modbury and promoting archaeology projects worldwide.