Fascinated by History? Don’t Miss Staffordshire Archaeology Day 2025
A Day of Fascinating Talks, Rare Finds, and Hands-On Archaeology Opportunities
History enthusiasts and archaeology lovers have something exciting to look forward to this spring! Stoke-on-Trent Museum Archaeological Society (SOTMAS), in collaboration with The Potteries Museum & Art Gallery, is hosting the annual Staffordshire Archaeology Day on Saturday, 29th March 2025. This free event will be held in the museum's comfortable 300-seater lecture theatre and will showcase some of the most fascinating recent discoveries in Staffordshire and the surrounding counties.
A Day Packed with Expert Talks
Attendees will have the opportunity to hear from six top speakers, each delivering illustrated presentations on significant archaeological findings, heritage preservation, and historical research. The event promises a captivating programme, with topics covering prehistoric artefacts, Roman Britain, and industrial archaeology.
Event Schedule:
10:30 AM: Welcome by Dr Lee Hyland, Chair of SOTMAS
10:40 AM: Recently Reported Finds – Teresa Gilmore, Staffordshire Finds Liaison Officer
11:15 AM: Heritage Crime in Staffordshire: The Current State of Play – Dr Kirsty Squires, Staffordshire University
11:55 AM: Industrial Slipware – David Barker, former Keeper of Ceramics at The Potteries Museum
12:45 PM: Lunch Break (Museum café and nearby eateries available)
2:00 PM: Aspull Ring Ditch Excavation – Patrick Maloney, Wigan Archaeological Society
2:45 PM: Bronze Age Metalwork from the River Trent – Professor Mark Pearce & Dr Richard Davis
3:35 PM: Breaking New Ground: Excavating Wroxeter Farm 2024 – Dr Roger White, University of Birmingham
4:25 PM - 5:00 PM: Closing Remarks & Discussion – Dr Lee Hyland
What to Expect
The event will highlight key archaeological projects, including a newly discovered Roman mosaic at Wroxeter, finds from a Bronze Age ring ditch, and a gold Bronze Age cloak fastener from Ellastone. Additionally, attendees will learn about industrial ceramics from the 18th and 19th centuries and the challenges of heritage crime in Staffordshire.
There will be opportunities to ask questions, engage with speakers, and connect with SOTMAS members. Anyone interested in getting hands-on experience with archaeology can find out how to get involved in excavations throughout the summer – at no cost!
A Chance to Explore the Museum
Visitors can also take time to explore The Potteries Museum & Art Gallery, home to a world-class ceramics collection, archaeological artefacts, and historical exhibitions. The event is free, but donations to the museum are encouraged to support its work.
How to Attend
Tickets can be reserved via Eventbrite, but additional spaces will be available at the door. Reserve your spot here: Staffordshire Archaeology Day Eventbrite
Whether you are an aspiring archaeologist, a history buff, or simply curious about Staffordshire’s heritage, this is an event not to be missed!
For more details, contact Stoke-on-Trent Museum Archaeological Society (SOTMAS).