Based on past experience, we hoped our three-day CBA Festival of Archaeology event at Oak House, West Bromwich would be popular with visitors, volunteers and members but we were completely blown away by the response.
Dozens of children and adults tried their hand at archaeology, with some returning for 'second helpings' on the same day or even coming back on the following day! On day one we were really pleased to welcome Sandwell's new mayor Richard Jones to our dig and throughout the event, we were accompanied by Oak House staff in authentic period costume. Our team put in a fantastic amount of effort to get people involved and help explain our findings which included objects dating back the the early history of the House.
In addition to our report which will follow in due course, we are delighted to be able to provide Oak House with 3D photogrammetry models of the test pits. These can be used for display or reference purposes in the future and give the viewer the impression of actually being there.
A huge thanks to the staff at Oak House, our members, volunteers and visitors for making this such a memorable event.
Test Pit No. 1 containing the base of a Victorian garden ornament (and a modern cable protected by drain pipes!):
A rare child-free moment for the team to crack on with the dig:
Test Pit No. 2 modern concrete supporting the kerb at left, edge of clay surface running top to bottom, possible traces of cobbled path/yard:
Families enjoying a free day out with sunshine and a glorious backdrop:
One of our photogrammetry models:
