Metal detecting enthusiasts are always looking for new and exciting places to search for hidden treasures. Old house sites are one of the most promising locations for such a search. These sites often contain a wealth of valuable finds, including precious metal toys, family heirlooms, and other exciting artifacts.
However, finding old house sites for metal detecting is difficult. It requires careful research and a keen eye for indicators of these sites.
This article will provide tips for discovering old house sites suitable for metal detecting. We will also suggest useful tools and resources for research, such as historical maps, public records, and old newspapers.
By following these tips, metal detecting enthusiasts can increase their chances of discovering hidden treasures at old house sites.
Key Takeaways
- Research extensively using websites like Gaia GPS, Historic Aerials, and Google Earth, as well as old maps, newspapers, archives, and land records.
- Look for indicators of an old house site, such as bricks, nails, out of place plants, and areas near water sources.
- Use the Garrett ACE Apex metal detector for finding house sites.
- Seek permission before searching old houses, especially if they are registered as historical sites or built on tribal land.
Researching House Sites
One must conduct extensive research using various resources to find old house sites for metal detecting.
Internet databases, such as Gaia GPS, Historic Aerials, and Google Earth, are useful websites for research.
Old maps at the library and researching through old newspapers, archives, and land records can also provide information on potential sites for exploration.
Land records are particularly important as they provide information on who owned the property, when it was sold, and any changes made to the land over time. These records can also give insight into the types of structures that were built on the property.
By cross-referencing this information with other sources, such as aerial maps and historical photos, one can identify potential locations for exploration.
Overall, conducting thorough research is crucial for finding old house sites for metal detecting.
Indicators of Old House Sites
Bricks, nails, out of place plants, and proximity to water sources are all indicators that can help identify potential old house sites for metal detecting.
First, brick identification is crucial in identifying old house sites, as older bricks tend to be handmade and have rougher edges and irregular shapes compared to modern machine-made bricks. Older bricks may also have unique markings or stamps that can help determine their age and origin.
Second, water sources can also be a good indicator of old house sites. Older homes often relied on natural water sources such as springs, creeks, or wells for their water supply. Therefore, searching for areas with a natural water source near old roads or trails can increase the chances of finding an old house site.
Other indicators of old house sites may include foundation stones, old wells, and cellar holes, which can be detected using a metal detector. Using these indicators, metal detectorists can increase their chances of finding hidden treasures at old house sites.
Laws and Permission
Metal detecting at old house sites is subject to property trespass laws, and permission may need to be obtained if the site is registered as a historical site or built on tribal land. It is important to research and obtain permission before beginning a metal detecting expedition. In some cases, metal detecting could damage or destroy historically significant artifacts or sites, which could result in legal repercussions.
Obtaining permission to metal detect at old house sites is not only a matter of laws but also a matter of cultural sensitivity and historical preservation. Some sites may hold cultural or spiritual significance to indigenous people or have historical significance to the local community. It is important to approach these sites with respect and seek the guidance of local authorities or organizations that specialize in historical preservation.
By doing so, metal detectorists can ensure that they are following the law and contributing to preserving history and culture.
Frequently Asked Questions
What common mistakes do metal detectorists make when searching for old house sites?
Common mistakes made by metal detectorists when searching for old house sites include inadequate research techniques, failure to obtain permission to search, and ignoring indicators of an old house site. Thorough research and attention to details are essential for successful searches.
Can metal detectors detect valuable items that are buried deep underground?
As the adage goes, “the deeper the buried treasure, the harder it is to find.”While metal detectors can detect valuable items buried deep underground, the accuracy of detection depends on various factors such as the type of metal, soil composition, and the sensitivity of the detector. Achieving accurate results requires expertise and advanced equipment.
Are there any risks or dangers associated with metal detecting at old house sites?
Pros of metal detecting at old house sites include the potential for valuable finds. Cons include the risk of disturbing historical artifacts. Safety measures should be taken to avoid injury. Legal considerations and environmental impact should also be taken into account.
How can metal detectorists ensure they are not damaging historical artifacts or sites during their searches?
Conservation efforts and responsible metal detecting are essential to ensure that historical artifacts and sites are not damaged during searches. Metal detectorists should adhere to ethical guidelines, obtain permission, and record locations of finds to aid in preservation efforts.
Are there any special techniques or strategies that metal detectorists can use to increase their chances of finding valuable items at old house sites?
To increase the chances of finding valuable items at old house sites, metal detectorists can use research resources such as Gaia GPS, Historic Aerials, and old maps from libraries. Terrain tactics include searching near water sources and looking for indicators like bricks and out of place plants.
