How this Sheffield group is aiming to get people in the city enthused about archaeology

The group, which is run by archaeology Phd students at Sheffield University, created Archaeology in the City to share their knowledge and let people connect with their past and heritage.

One of the current group leaders, Chris Dwan, said: "We have gained knowledge through years of learning and studying but it no good just in our heads, we want to share all the information with people in the city and get them as excited about archaeology as we are.

“History isn’t dusty and boring for us it’s hands on and part of everyone’s life so we have been working hard to bring the history to life.”

Every year the group host the Woodland Heritage Festival in Ecclesall Woods which allows members of the public of all ages a more hands-on archaeological experience through experimental archaeology activities like smelting and casting bronze and making your own pottery.

The 30-year-old added: “In past years we have had such great turnouts and its been so nice to see people of all ages there. We try and do things that will connect to you however old you are so we have had cave painting in a tent for younger ones but then done activities which can be enjoyed by teens and adults.

"It’s great to be able to make use of such a big accessible public space.”

Due to Covid-19 restrictions the festival was a virtual one and the Archaeology and Ales talks which were being held in Sheffield’s Red Deer pub have also been shelved although they are still getting the speakers in and producing podcasts.

"It does change things, " explained Chris. “The talks are about Sheffield and the surrounding areas and have always been popular and at the end when we say any question lots of hands go up and it’s just not the same with a podcast it less instant so we are working on new ways we can tackle this and continue the talks in a more interactive way.”

The group is passionate about growing young minds and work with schools in the city to provide resources to strengthen students learning.

Chris, who is from the USA but came to Sheffield to do his masters and stayed on to do his PhD, added: “Growing up I loved the past and was fascinated by history and a had curiosity for learning things and this group is great as it inspires others to think about their history and the history of where they live."

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