| Iron age archaeology in West Lothian has been
described as a 'Black
hole' (An area where site types are still ill-defined or
unknown, and which have seen little or no modern research beyond the
site-specific) by a Working Party of members of the Iron Age
Research Seminar. The Convenor was Colin Haselgrove
(University of Durham); and the members were: Ian Armit (Queens
University Belfast), Tim Champion (University of Southampton), John
Creighton (University of Reading), Adam Gwilt (National Museum of
Wales), JD Hill (British Museum), Fraser Hunter (National Museum of
Scotland), Ann Woodward (Birmingham University Archaeological Field
Unit).
________________________________________
Archaeological investigations in West Lothian have
been minimal for all time periods. |
Cairnpapple
©
Jim Knowles
2 February 2010 KAP
Archaeological sites within West
Lothian are probably much more significant than has been previously
recognised. With these web pages, we hope to raise the profile of West
Lothian's archaeological and historic heritage.
Initially, our aim
is to provide a visual record of features and places of interest within West
Lothian, and the Armadale/Torphichen/Bathgate area in particular. We will continue to include other areas
that are of special interest to us. Our photographic equipment
includes five near infra-red cameras.
We will include buildings and sites that are known and
recorded, as well as previously unrecorded sites. We welcome suggestions for inclusion on these
pages, especially unidentified sites, and also features which have been
incorporated into older buildings from even earlier times. Topographical
features, especially hills, will be included regardless of any established
archaeological significance.
Torphichen Hills (Infra-red)
Features (archaeological, architectural and topographical) and
artefacts will be presented in a form that is
accessible to those interested in archaeology and history and their
context within the landscape. In some cases,
this may lead to more detailed archaeological investigations. Where
possible, we will take kite aerial photographs to help delineate
structures that are difficult to see otherwise.
The use of kite aerial photography in a community and
archaeological context is a primary interest. Sites identified as being
worthy of further investigation will be surveyed using
non-invasive techniques.
The West of Scotland
Archaeology Service has a
page which is designed to allow you to submit new archaeological
information to the WoSAS
Sites
and Monuments Record (Interactive
Mapping). WOSAS is our region's primary body for recording
information and for providing archaeological services. Martin O'Hare,
Sites and Monuments Record Officer, has been a constant source of advice
and information.
Organisations working in our area, like the
Edinburgh Archaeological Field Society
(EAFS),
also report back to
Historic
Scotland. The West Lothian Archaeology Group (WLAG)
and Forum (WLAF) would probably
have not come into existence without the initial support and encouragement
of the EAFS. Their continuing support is gratefully acknowledged.
The Royal Commission on the Ancient and Historical
Monuments of Scotland (RCAHMS)
is also responsible for recording, interpreting and collecting information
about the built environment for the whole of Scotland. Their
Scotland's Rural Past
team have carried out some excellent work supporting regional archaeology
groups. We would also like to acknowledge advice and support from
Dave Cowley.
Unless otherwise indicated, all photos were taken by Rosie and John Wells
and are copyright © West Lothian
Archaeology Group |
