It was the ‘House of Shaws’ which inspired Robert Louis Stevenson’s novel Kidnapped. Now budding archaeologists are being invited to explore the historic site for themselves at an open weekend in Cammo Estate. Residents of all ages and skills can put their excavation skills to the test and learn about the work of the Edinburgh Archaeological Field Society at the remains of Cammo House this weekend (Friday 7 – Saturday 8 July).
The free event will provide an opportunity for members of the community to join archaeologists as they explore beneath the remains of the building and learn about this nationally important historic estate.
Councillor Donald Wilson, Culture and Communities Convener for the City of Edinburgh Council, said: “This is a great opportunity for members of the community to actively participate in this important archaeological excavation. The weekend will provide brand new evidence about this important estate, which dates back to the prehistoric period. Who knows what could be unearthed!”
The Council’s Archaeologist, John Lawson, added: “This weekend is just the start of what we hope will be an exciting three-year project which will unlock the secrets of the estate.
“To date, no systematic archaeological investigation has taken place at Cammo and therefore many questions remain to be answered. What did the 17th century house look like? Is there any surviving evidence for an earlier medieval estate? And, can we prove Cammo was first settled in the prehistoric period?
“With the help of the Edinburgh Archaeological Field Society (EAFS) and members of the public, we hope new discoveries will go towards answering some of these questions and lead us into new projects and areas of research.”
The weekend events are being run by Edinburgh Archaeological Field Society (EAFS) with support from the Friends of Cammo and the City of Edinburgh Council, including a grant from the Almond Neighbourhood Partnership.
Christine McPherson, Chair of EAFS, said: “We are all looking forward to sharing our enthusiasm for archaeology and the history of Cammo with the visiting public. We hope that people will come and try out a new experience and enjoy themselves. Members of the society will be on hand to talk to visitors about the site and show them a range of archaeological skills. Of course, it would be a bonus if they become as enthusiastic as we are and join our Society. We welcome new members and will be offering special membership rates over the weekend.”
Drop-in for free on Friday 7 July or Saturday 8 July, 10am – 4pm.
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