Conservation science investigation (CSI) is a vital part of archaeology. Once objects are raised from the ground, they are all cleaned and analysed. Most of this work happens during the excavation. With some objects, though (especially the metal ones), we ask the conservators to look closer. Conservators are just as forensic as the police at a crime scene when finding out what objects are made of and how they were created!
Through our exhibition, Raising the Dead, you can see the power of CSI. Conservation helped the archaeologists running the project learn more about the spectacular objects we have on display. CSI told us about manufacturing methods, materials, and even evidence of Anglo-Saxon funeral practices. Without it, archaeologists would have much less knowledge of the past.
Dana Goodburn-Brown led the conservation work on the finds in our exhibition – you’ll have seen her on Digging for Britain. She will show you how conservators make discoveries about the past. With hands-on exploration, craft, and some experimental archaeology, you’ll get an insight into how she teases the secrets out of objects. She’ll even bring some objects from the cemetery which weren’t put on display!
CSI: Folkestone is designed for children and young people under 13. We’ll run four activity sessions a day at 10:30, 11:30, 13:30 and 14:30. When you arrive at the museum before your chosen session, please pick up your FREE timed ticket at the main reception desk! Tickets are first come, first served on the day – we don’t allow booking in advance. We cap workshop numbers at 15 participants (plus their adults) per workshop.
All workshops are free, but we’d appreciate a small donation towards materials.
