In Britain, site research, it seems, is one of the more neglected aspects of our hobby. Why should one field be productive of finds year after year and yet the next field be totally barren? The answer is past human activity, and David Villanueva shows in this book simple ways, through map and document research, how to locate such activity. The methods are clearly explained and often require no more than an hour or two spent at the local library or on the Internet.

And, as an added bonus, farmers are far more likely to grant search permission if an approach is made to them armed with documents detailing the past history of their land. In fact, one chapter of the book is devoted to ways of gaining land to search.

Site Research contains 160 full colour pages divided into 20 chapters, profusely illustrated with examples of maps and documents, and examples of finds resulting from the suggested research methods. Although written mainly for detectorists, this book will also be of interest and help to fieldwalkers, local historians and archaeologists.

David Villanueva has over 30 years of experience in metal detecting and research in Britain, and is a regular contributor to Treasure Hunting magazine. He has been responsible for seven reported finds of Treasure, and has built up a collection of other coins and artefacts that would be the envy of many.

Whether you are a beginner or an experienced detectorist, within a short while of owning this book and applying its lessons, you will start to acquire more productive sites and as a result start to make better finds.

Chapter titles:  Using Archives, Libraries & Computers  County Maps  Ordnance Survey Maps  Practical Map Reading  Town Plans  Road Maps  Road, River, Canal & Railway Construction Maps  Enclosure & Tithe Maps  Estate Maps  Sea Charts Aerial Photographs, Maps & Surveys  Local Histories  Guide to County Histories  Domesday Book  Gaining Search Permission  Search Agreements  Living with the Treasure Act  Code of Practice  Bibliography & Sources

 

Soft cover, 250mm x 190mm, 160 pages, ISBN 1 897738 285 £17.50

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SOME FEEDBACK RECEIVED:

"I have enjoyed working on this book and feel that I have personally learnt a lot from it, even though I purchased my first metal detector in 1971 and have been in the hobby for many years." Greg Payne, Editor

"I have just received my copy of the new book Site Research by David Villanueva. This book is a cracker for all of us as the longer that I am in this hobby the more I have a thirst for more data. The new folks to the hobby will find it's a way to advance their knowledge in a short time. The illustrations are on a par with Benet's [a superb colour finds catalogue] and there is an insight when it comes to doing the homework prior to going on a dig is a must. Computer sites for data are also included and pictures of old maps from centuries past are very interesting. Well I think that I have said enough to wet the appetite of those who want to get the best out of the hobby. It certainly won't break the bank at £20 and there is always the Xmas list." JBM, Bristol

"I just would like to say the book is fantastic, you have done a good job and it's a great help."

Paul Kelly