About The portable antiquities scheme
The Portable Antiquities Scheme: Preserving the Rich History of the UK
The Portable Antiquities Scheme (PAS) is a unique initiative that aims to preserve and promote the rich archaeological heritage of the United Kingdom. The scheme is run by two leading institutions in the field of archaeology - The British Museum and Amgueddfa Cymru - National Museum Wales. It encourages members of the public to report any archaeological objects they find, with a view to recording them for posterity.
The PAS was launched in 1997, with funding from the UK government's Department for Culture, Media and Sport. Its primary objective was to create a comprehensive database of archaeological finds made by members of the public across England and Wales. Since then, it has grown into one of the most successful initiatives in this field globally.
The scheme operates on a voluntary basis, relying on members of the public to report their finds voluntarily. This approach has proved highly effective, with over 1 million objects recorded since its inception. These include coins, jewellery, weapons, tools and other artefacts dating from prehistoric times up until modern times.
One key aspect that sets PAS apart from other similar schemes is its focus on collaboration between professional archaeologists and amateur enthusiasts. Members of local metal detecting clubs are encouraged to participate in recording finds alongside professional archaeologists who provide guidance on best practices for excavation techniques.
Another important feature is its emphasis on education and outreach activities aimed at raising awareness about our shared cultural heritage among different communities across England and Wales. This includes workshops for school children as well as training sessions for volunteers interested in learning more about archaeology.
In addition to preserving our cultural heritage through recording finds made by members of the public, PAS also plays an important role in research activities related to archaeology. The data collected through this initiative provides valuable insights into past human activity patterns across different regions within England and Wales.
Furthermore, it helps researchers to better understand the social, economic and political contexts in which these objects were produced and used. This information is then used to inform wider debates about the history of the UK and its place within a global context.
The PAS has received widespread recognition for its contribution to preserving our cultural heritage. It has won several awards, including the prestigious European Union Prize for Cultural Heritage/Europa Nostra Award in 2011.
In conclusion, The Portable Antiquities Scheme is a unique initiative that plays a vital role in preserving and promoting our shared cultural heritage. Its focus on collaboration between professional archaeologists and amateur enthusiasts, as well as its emphasis on education and outreach activities, make it an exemplary model for similar initiatives worldwide. By recording archaeological finds made by members of the public across England and Wales, PAS helps us to better understand our past while also informing wider debates about our present-day society.