The Amateur Archaeologist S Handbook

This practical, down-to-earth guide for surface collectors of arrowheads and stone artifacts is designed especially for amateur archaeologists and people interested in learning how to study and collect artifacts safely and responsibly. The author reveals invaluable tips on: where to look for artifacts; how to identify artifacts; where surface collecting is permissible; starting and caring for your own collection. With more than fifty new photographs and illustrations of common and rare artifacts, this book is the perfect addition to libraries of amateur archaeologists thirsty for knowledge about preserving and interpreting the remains of a prehistoric culture.

This informed and practical guide shows how anyone with an interest can take part in archaeology at many different levels, whether through fieldwork undertaken individually or by joining an excavation. Stephen Wass, himself an enthusiast with long experience, provides all that a beginner needs to know: what is archaeology all about? the range of skills that can be learnt examples of ideas for projects advice on what to expect on a dig clear explanations of archaeological techniques. There are some 177 local archaeological societies in Britain with 40,000 members, as well as numerous school, extramural and university courses in archaeology. It is one professional area in which the amateur, however inexperienced, can still not only participate but also make a real contribution and this book positively encourages people to join in.

An Ideal introduction for novices who want to break into the field and an excellent handbook for experienced amateurs who want to "dig in" deeper.

In one volume here is everything you need to conduct fieldwork in archaeology. The Archaeologist's Field Handbook is designed for every kind of archaeological practice, from simple site recordings to professional consultancies and anyone who wants to record heritage sites responsibly.This hands-on manual provides step-by-step instructions on how to undertake and successfully complete fieldwork in all fields of archaeology, from Indigenous to historical to landscape work. Charts, checklists, graphs, maps and diagrams clearly illustrate how to design, fund, research, map, record, interpret, photograph and write up your fieldwork.This second edition is updated throughout and incorporates strategies for digital data capture, improved methods, recent legislation and more affordable technologies for surveying and photography. The Archaeologist's Field Handbook remains the ultimate resource for consultants, teachers, students, community groups and anyone involved in heritage fieldwork.'An essential aid for beginners and professionals.' - Emeritus Professor John Mulvaney'This volume has become the standard for archaeological field training ... A must for students, professionals and community groups.' - Martin Gibbs, Professor of Archaeology, University of New England'It is absolutely the 'go to' field manual for archaeologists whatever their level within the profession.' - Jane Balme, Associate Professor of Archaeology, University of Western Australia

This practical, down-to-earth guide for surface collectors of arrowheads and stone artifacts is designed especially for amateur archaeologists and people interested in learning how to study and collect artifacts safely and responsibly. The author reveals invaluable tips on: where to look for artifacts; how to identify artifacts; where surface collecting is permissible; starting and caring for your own collection. With more than fifty new photographs and illustrations of common and rare artifacts, this book is the perfect addition to libraries of amateur archaeologists thirsty for knowledge about preserving and interpreting the remains of a prehistoric culture.

A hands-on resource for new and amateur archaeologists provides hundreds of step-by-step photographs, maps and illustrations from excavations around the world.