Living history event features castle finds

The finds, which date from prehistoric times through to the late 18th century, were on show to give people an opportunity to get close to these intriguing items that were once part of everyday life.

A total of 12 trenches were archaeologically excavated in the castle, eight in the inner ward and four in the outer. Evidence of prehistoric, medieval and post-medieval activity was uncovered during these archaeological investigations. The artefacts on display all related to the lives of the officers and ordinary soldiers stationed at the garrison.

The investigations were carried out on behalf of the Northern Ireland Environment Agency by the Centre for Archaeological Fieldwork, School of Geography, Archaeology and Palaeoecology, Queen’s University Belfast under the direction of Ruairí Ó Baoill.

Carrickfergus Borough Council extended thanks to both organisations for enabling the material to be displayed at the museum.

The items were brought to the Antrim Street location to coincide with the recent archaeology family fun day, where budding archaeologists had a chance to dig for treasure in specially constructed excavation pits.

With professional archaeologists from Irish Archaeological Research on hand and living history re-enactors from Kragfergus Living History Group, there was plenty to keep the whole family entertained.

To find out more about forthcoming events, visit www.carrickfergus.org or email [email protected]