Going on the Dig

Our Kids Kabin Cowgate group had the opportunity to be real life archaeologists as part of our Making History project this summer. Along with the Redesdale Archaeology Group (RAG) and some young people from North Tyne Youth, they prepared for a re-enaction of a raid on a Roman Fort before making their own historical finds! 

First, they painted themselves in (not so traditional) blue wode, then went down and hid in the riverbed, and started their raid. After a few dramatic battle scenes, the swords were swapped for trowels and they started the serious archaeology work.  

Faith leading the attack on the Romans

The group had a chance to be real archaeologists, carefully brushing back soil and uncovering pieces of genuine Roman pottery. Mason, age 12, he held up his specimen and shouted, “Look, I’ve found another piece of samian ware.” The looks on their faces were priceless as they uncovered more and more pieces of history.

Mason finding ‘another piece of samian ware!’ 

It was muddy, noisy and full of discoveries, with urban youth from Newcastle and young people from rural Northumberland working side by side to uncover treasures from the past. On the way home, the young people were planning their next dig and talking about what they might find next.  

Annette, RAG Outreach Coordinator said the project, "has provided a great opportunity for the young people to learn about the fascinating 2000-year history of this remote area through hands on exploration of the site and creativity as well as through the modern technology of metal detecting. I was very impressed by their energy, exuberance and curiosity about Roman archaeology.” 

RAG helping Kids Kabin and North Tyne Youth identify their finds 

Catherine Coats from North Tyne Youth, said "Through this creative, fun and playful project North Tyne Youth young people have become curious about the history of their local area. Being offered the rare opportunity to visit an archaeological dig site - on their doorstep, was exciting. Connecting with RAG gave the opportunity for the young people to talk to people who have found objects and could tell engaging stories about them." 

A big thank you to RAG for helping make this happen, for giving the kids a chance to uncover history sparking their curiosity and imagination in a way that a classroom history lesson never would.   

Click to learn about the full Making History project here