12th February 2008, 09:59 AM
Quote:quote:living in the real world is hard and full of choices ... but if it means more archaeology recorded and a more positive dialogue on a 'past its sell by date' battle ... BAJR is not scared to do it.
I have been visiting quite a few archaeological forums throughout the years and there are not many where one man puts his head above the parapet and practises what he preaches. Where to be honest... puts his career on the line for something he believes in and is not afraid to be different.
We invited David (minelabowners.com) to help in the recording of finds and to participate in the TV programme that was being broadcast live from near Corfe castle. This was a great opportunity for detectorists to see first hand the work that was being done by âpioneering archaeologistsâ with a down to earth approach and not the âIâm better than you and you have no right to this information because your not professionalâ brigade. Before some of you go for my jugular vein it does exist.
People were able to discuss the misconceptions that existed between the two disciplines and some agreed to differ and others made friendships that will last for many years.
David spends many hours on various detecting forums answering questions and getting a real hard time from the old timers in the hobby. I personally wasnât detecting in the 70âs & 80âs so never got to see the rivalry that went on between both camps. What I do see is the residue of those conflicts which must have been very harsh and bitter and an arrogance that I personally have never seen before in interests I have been involved in.
Education is what is needed in the colleges while the old school are still spreading their ânegativeâ propagandaâ and also the same goes for the detectorists too. Donât get me wrong... I do understand the archaeologists point of view but I m glad to see the âtimes they are a changingâ and co-operation is leading the way to adding more knowledge to the historical record.
When an article hangs one man out to dry because he dares to be different and challenges the views of people within the archaeological profession is wrong. Where the power of the media is used to pick a man apart and gives no right of reply shows British Archaeology for what it really is and leaves a bad taste in the mouth.
Where people within various circles use their contacts and influence in the "old boys network" to try and discredit a person is a disgrace.
David... I take my hat of to you and you know I hold you in high esteem for your efforts.
The historical record will show the work that was done and the future generations following will in the end get to see the true picture. Are there any others like you David... I havenât really seen any?
Well there not banging at the doors to make them selves known anyway.
RESPECT!
Gary
Website for responsible Metal Detecting
http://www.ukdfd.co.uk
Recording Our Heritage For Future Generations.