We are a friendly, long-established society, providing a focal point for all with an interest in archaeology. We provide a range of services and activities to members, catering for enthusiasts and professional archaeologists alike:
- A regular newsletter keeps members updated on Society news and events, as well as educational, training and study opportunities in archaeology, and general developments in the subject.
- A lecture programme is presented by distinguished authorities on particular facets of archaeology. It is structured to inform members of developments in local, national and international archaeology. The current series examines ancient technology in Britain, with particular reference to the West Midlands. The 1999/2000 programme will take chronology as its theme, looking at the use of dating techniques in archaeological and historical studies, in Europe, Africa and Asia.
- Excursions are organised to sites of archaeological significance. We have recently visited Bredon Hill, Meole Brace and the historic churches of Radnorshire. Artefact handling sessions are arranged with Birmingham Museum, enabling members to examine and touch objects normally kept in glass cases or reserve stores.
- The Field Group undertakes practical investigations on behalf of the Society. Current work centres on a survey of farmland to the east of Sutton Coldfield, where objects ranging from prehistric times to the medieval period have been recovered. The topography, land use and characteristics of the area are also noted, and the results of the survey are added to the official Sites and Monuments Record. Previous projects have focused on Lifford Hall in King's Norton, and surveys of the Rea Valley and Barston Parish. Members may therefore participate in fieldwalking, landscape and building recording, or archive and map-based research.
- The Transactions of the Society are published annually, and are respected throughout the archaeological community for the academic and professional standards achieved. Detailed reports of archaeological investigations are featured, together with Field Group survey findings. Articles of general archaeological interest are also published. Back issues of Transactions are available, as are off-prints of individual articles.
- The Society's Library houses a complete set of Transactions, as well as appropriate publications from Britain and abroad.
|
