The girls beat more than 75 other entrants to be picked out of the hat and spent the day learning more about the role of an archaeologist and life in Roman times at an excavation site in Ribchester.
The day started with a tour of the fort which is still preserved as a huge dip in the ground. Archaeologist Dr Jim Morris from UCLan, described how the first fort at Ribchester was built in wood, but that it was then replaced by a massive and imposing stone fort. He explained that it was built next to a river so that boats could sail up to Ribchester from the Irish Sea.
After the tour it was time for the girls to get their hands dirty and begin digging. The girls learnt about 'small finds' – these are the special or unusual finds made on site, like coins and jewellery. Three roman coins were found and the girls helped record them, charting the exact position of where the finds were recovered before measuring, weighing and photographing them.
Hannah said, “The most interesting thing that I learnt was that an average Roman soldier slept with five other men in his barracks – and their horses! The best thing during the day was digging; I found a piece of bone. I'd describe my day as interesting, fun, exciting, thrilling and enjoyable.”
Bethany said, “I really enjoyed digging and it was fun getting our hands dirty. My best find was definitely a Roman nail!! I'd describe my day as dirty, exciting, educational, inspiring and fun. Everyone at the site was very nice, and it was very inspiring. My day really made me want to try more archaeology when I'm older!
History teacher Mr Cope said, “We are delighted that Hannah and Bethany had the opportunity to experience a day in the life of an archaeologist and would like to thank the YAC for running the event. History helps us to understand different cultures and without looking to past events we’d struggle to understand why our modern day societies function as they do. No doubt Hannah and Bethany have learned a lot from the day which will stand them in good stead with their future studies”.
Bethany & Hannah YAC day
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