Getting Involved
Location: Cumbria
There were four ways that volunteers could get involved and these are outlined below along with some of the evidence that has been found.
1. Look at records, maps and other written evidence for information about St Catherine’s past history.
Working with an archaeologist in the County Record Office, Local Studies Library and other local archives to research the early history of St. Catherine’s and collect information about the people and events that have helped to shape the landscape we see today. This work helped to explain some of the fieldwork findings and will provide a vital framework to clarify the chronology of the site.
It has been fascinating to see where this research has lead us. With the help of volunteers we investigated papers held in Staffordshire record office, Wessex, Shropshire and further information has come to light in London. Already the photographs, maps, sales particulars and paintings that have been found are forming a much clearer picture of how the modern day St Catherine's developed.
2. Working with archaeologists on site to identify and record features of archaeological or historic interest.
This might include assisting archaeologists with walking and surveying the site, helping to use an EDM (electronic distance measuring device) or GPS (global positioning system) mapping, as well as making written and photographic records of interesting sites. The investigations didn't include any excavation as we are trying to get an overview of the site.
This work took place between the 2nd and 6th of August and the teams recorded everything from existing buildings and charcoal pitsteads to the veteran trees that help define the character of St Catherine's.
3. Help to record peoples memories and stories of the place in an oral recording.
For this part volunteers worked with National Trust staff to record information from local people who have memories of the site. We want the final piece of work to be enlivened through the personal touch of people's memories and these recordings were one way to do this.
4. Tell stories, pass on information or put us in contact with people who can deepen our understanding of the place and what it means to people in the area.
Some people have come forward with names and books that might be of interest to us in researching the history of St. Catherine’s. If you know anybody who might have useful information, please mention this project to them and encourage them to get in touch.
There will be a public meeting at the Marchesi Centre in Windermere on the 9th September at 7pm. This public meeting will be a chance for anybody to hear the initial results of the survey. We are keen that anybody who has any extra information can still add it into the report at this stage. The archeologists, from Oxford Archaeology North, will finish the final report by the end of October and copies will be available in the local library and County Record Office.
 |
|
|
|
|
