The upcoming archaeological excavation at Glasgow's Queen's Park is more than just a dig into the past; it's an opportunity to unravel the mysteries of a bygone era and a chance to explore the very heart of Scotland's cultural heritage. Personally, I think this project is a fascinating glimpse into the lives of our ancestors, offering a unique perspective on the Iron Age and early medieval periods. What makes this particularly intriguing is the earthworks' enigmatic nature, having remained largely unexplored since the 1950s. The Camphill Earthwork, as it's known, is a broken ring of earth stretching 120 meters around a small wood at the top of the hill, believed to date back to the Iron Age or early medieval times. However, the lack of investigation since the 1950s has left it shrouded in mystery. The earthworks are thought to have formed the perimeter of a small settlement or fort, but no trace of this remains. According to records, excavations in 1867 revealed a 'sort of paved floor' near the center of the enclosure, at a depth of about eight inches. Covering the surface was a layer of charred oats mixed with fragments of oak, samples of which were taken to the People's Palace Museum. This raises a deeper question: what does the presence of charred oats imply about the people who lived there? Were they farmers, or perhaps foragers? What makes this even more interesting is the discovery of pottery sherds dated to 'not later than the 14th century' in 1951 excavations. This suggests a much longer occupation than previously thought. The upcoming excavation, led by Archaeology Scotland and the University of Glasgow, aims to improve our understanding of the region's historic environment. It's part of the Clyde Valley Archaeological Research Framework (CVARF), which is a significant step forward in preserving and interpreting Scotland's rich history. The earthwork's erosion over time has made it a challenging site to investigate, but the team's efforts will hopefully provide valuable insights. Members of the public will have the opportunity to witness the excavation firsthand, with free site tours running between 10 am and 3 pm from August 24 to September 4, excluding Sunday, August 30. Visitors will be able to observe archaeologists at work and learn more about the investigation into the monument's history and significance. A community archaeology open day will also take place on Saturday, August 29, offering guided tours, heritage stalls, hands-on archaeology activities, storytelling sessions, and a range of other attractions designed to engage people of all ages with the area's past. This project is not just about uncovering the past; it's about connecting with our heritage and understanding the stories that have shaped our cities. It's a chance to appreciate the complexity and richness of our history, and to see how the past can inform our present and future. In my opinion, this excavation is a crucial step in preserving and interpreting Scotland's rich history, and I can't wait to see what mysteries it will reveal.
