Derry museum to host series of special heritage events this weekend
A series of events celebrating archaeology will be taking place this weekend at the Tower Museum in Derry.
Organised by Derry City and Strabane District Council, the events are designed to give members of the public the opportunity to experience, not only a sample archaeological dig but also to have the opportunity to engage with professional archaeologists, take part in family activities and see ancient artefacts up close and personal.
The events begin on Friday at the Tower Museum where the life of local archaeologist, educationalist and naturalist, Mabel Colhoun will be celebrated with a special blue plaque unveiling by the Mayor of the city and district and the Ulster History Circle at 11.30am.
Mabel’s niece Kyleen Clarke and local historian Denise Henry will also speak at the event on Mabel’s legacy.
Later on the Friday evening at 6.30pm, the Mayor will open the ‘Mabel Colhoun: A North West Pioneer exhibition’, which will be displayed at the museum.
The exhibition will unveil representations of Mabel’s life through the use of spaces, featuring her incredible and inspirational collections relating to her work as a teacher, archaeological surveyor, writer, artist and historian.
On Saturday, from 10am until 4pm, archaeology enthusiasts are invited to unearth the history of the city and district with a series of events taking place at the Tower Museum and Craft Village as part of the third annual Archaeology Day.
There will be an opportunity for children to take part in a ‘Big Dig’ at the Craft Village and experience a replica Viking House excavation, designed for children from 5 to 12 years of age.
The event enables children to explore the Viking world through a simulated and controlled archaeology dig and experience what life as a young Indiana Jones would be like, by learning how to excavate the remains of a Viking house and dig for Viking treasures and artefacts dating back over 1,000 years.
On Saturday, there will also be a series of talks from local experts including a talk by Sarah Nicol, discussing ‘Glenshane Wood Henge, Derry’s Ritualistic Past’ at 11.30am; a presentation on the ‘Excavation of the Battle of Britain Veteran Spitfire R6992’ by Jonny Mc Nee at 1pm; followed by a demonstration by Alastair Ruffell, who will present findings from recent geo-physical surveys on the Siege Museum, Nailor’s Row and Longtower Street at 2.30pm.
Amongst the family fun activities throughout the day for children, there will be opportunities to explore the past with treasure hunts, fancy dress, tours and exhibitions.