A Colonial Compass Sundial Surfaces in Connecticut

Even after mechanical pocket watches were introduced, some homesteaders still relied on the sun to know what time it was.

By Chris Edwards

Deciphering Civil War Flagpole Brass

When it comes to determining whether a dug brass piece was lost by a flag bearer or a farmer, it’s important to do your homework.

By Charlie Harris

Best of the North East

There are few organized colonial relic digs in the USA. One exception is the Best of the North East, or BONE, event held each year in New Hampshire. This author reviews the highlights of the 25th year of this event, and tells us what is next.

By Allyson Cohen

The Do’s and Don’ts of Door Knocking

In many cases, the only way to get proper permission to hunt a site is by knocking on some doors. Lost opportunities can result from being ill prepared before cold calling on strangers.

By Adam Larrabee

Us Oval Belt Plates: Separating Real From Repro

“Is that buckle real?” Many detectorists have heard that from those unfamiliar with Civil War relics. But how do you know for sure? This article tells how.

By Roger S. Durham

Beating the Heat

September may mean that a brutal summer is coming to an end, but until it does, jump in the water to keep cool while detecting.

By Bob Turner

Buckles Down Under

As the California Gold Rush died off, a new one cropped up halfway across the world, in Australia. Many of the same miners worked both. The recovery of buckles common to mining sites in both places helps prove this.