FAQ

Below we have provided a list of the most frequently asked questions (FAQs) about Conservation Archaeology - you can also find a list of more general FAQs on our Help & FAQs page.

What does Tees Archaeology do?
Tees Archaeology provides a range of archaeological public services across the four unitary authorities of Hartlepool, Middlesbrough, Redcar & Cleveland and Stockton-on-Tees. These include a record of all known archaeological sites, leaflets and publications, archaeological projects including excavation, and curation of archaeological artefacts.

How can I find out about archaeological sites in my area?
Tees Archaeology holds a record of all the known archaeological sites in the area (the Historic Environment Record) and this can be consulted by appointment. This includes aerial photographs and excavation reports as well as other information. Contact the HER officer on 01429 523458.

Do you have any jobs in archaeology?
Tees Archaeology employs temporary staff on an occasional basis but you would be expected to have archaeological experience. Contact the Project Officer on 01429 523453.

How can I get involved in archaeology?
Tees Archaeology offers a range of opportunities for people to become involved. There are a number of projects where volunteers are welcome. Work experience placements are offered for pupils and students and the service has close links to local archaeological societies that can also provide opportunities for involvement.

How do you get into archaeology?
Join the Council for British Archaeology (CBA) or, if you are between nine and 16, the CBA's Young Archaeologists' Club (YAC). Alternatively you can approach your local archaeology unit and see if you are able to volunteer for a dig. Many universities run archaeology courses, with a very wide variety of specialisations (you can get details from the CBA). Archaeology is a good degree to do as it is very eclectic, combining science, geography, history, academic and physical work, theory and practical skills.

Council for British Archaeology
Bowes Morrell House
111 Walmgate
York YO1 2UA
tel. 01904 671 417
www.britarch.ac.uk

I would like somebody to identify an object
Tees Archaeology is happy to assist in the identification of objects, however the service does not and cannot provide valuations. Contact the HER Officer on 01429 523458 or email us at tees.archaeology@hartlepool.gov.uk

What happens to the finds?
Most finds – with the exception of 'treasure trove', which is covered by specific legislation requiring it to be offered for sale to the British Museum (or, via the BM, to a local museum) – are actually the property of whoever owns the land on which they are found. This means it is up to the owners as to what happens to them. Most of the finds we have unearthed can be seen at the Museum of Hartlepool or are stored in our archaeological archives.

What is 'treasure trove' and if I find 'treasure' can I keep it?
Generally speaking, when the owner of an archaeological find cannot be traced, any find will belong to the owner of the land on which it was discovered. In the case of 'treasure trove', special legislation applies. All 'treasure trove' (basically gold and silver, which was originally hidden and where the owner cannot now be found) belongs to the Crown and, when discovered, is subject to an inquest at a coroner's court to establish the circumstances of its loss or deposition. Archaeologists are frequently involved in giving evidence to such inquests. Finders are often allowed to keep the objects, or an institution such as the British Museum pays so that the objects can be added to a national collection.

Can somebody tell me about how archaeology might affect my planning application?
Yes, Tees Archaeology monitors all development proposals in the area and provides advice to developers and planning authorities about the potential impact of a development on an archaeological site. Contact the HER Officer on 01429 523458.