News and Events
17/02/2023: Conference - By Surging Sea and Quiet Lough, Exploring the Maritime Heritage of Ards and North Down
North Down Museum is hosting a one day conference highlighting the rich maritime traditions within the Borough of Ards and North Down.
9am - 5pm Friday 17th February, Bangor Castle
Our 115 mile coastline is one of the longest in Northern Ireland, with Belfast Lough to the north, the Irish Sea to the east, and Strangford Lough with its many islands forming the internal coastline of the Ards Peninsula. It has been inhabited for at least 7,000 years and even today a significant proportion of the Borough’s population live in 17 coastal settlements. The coast as a resource allowed industries such as fishing, trading, and boat-building to flourish as well leisure sailing and even smuggling; the aim of this conference is to highlight these activities and showcase the valuable work carried out by local researchers and heritage interest groups.
The Ards and North Down Heritage Cluster, which has prompted this Conference, is an informal gathering of heritage interest groups across the Borough, set up in June 2022. The Cluster meets quarterly to discuss heritage issues and potential partnership projects; and to network and share research ideas and identify training needs.
Anyone with an interest in the Borough’s rich maritime heritage is welcome. Places are limited so early booking is advisable. The cost of £10 includes refreshments.
30/01/2023: In-person lecture - St Brigid's Shoe: A religious statement made in 1710
Our next lecture will be on Monday 30th January and given by Cormac Bourke - St Brigid's Shoe: A religious statement made in 1710
The subject of this lecture is a metal shoe in the National Museum of Ireland known (but only since 1923) as the shrine of St Brigid’s shoe. Acquired by George Petrie at Loughrea, Co Galway, c. 1840, it has been understood by all commentators to be of either 15th-, 16th- or 17th-century date. In fact it dates wholly to the early 18th century and can be shown to be representative of that context. Inscriptions on the shoe refer to contemporary devotions and religious causes.
Cormac Bourke specialises in the study of early ecclesiastical metalwork and is honorary editor of the Ulster Journal of Archaeology. His book 'The Early Medieval Hand-Bells of Ireland and Britain' was published in Dublin in 2020.
This lecture will take place in-person in the Elmwood Building, Queen's University Belfast (on Elmwood Avenue).
01/02/2023: Current Archaeology Book of the Year Award
Every year Current Archaeology Magazine allows the public to vote in their archaeology awards. Categories include - Archaeologist of the Year, Book of the Year, Research Project and Rescue Project of the Year. This year, one of the books nominated is 'The Prehistoric Artefacts of Northern Ireland' by Harry and June Welsh. This is the third book in their series on the prehistory of Northern Ireland, with previous volumes looking at sites and monuments associated with life and death. Harry and June have also made a significant contribution to the Ulster Archaeological Society through their dedication to the Survey Group over many years.
You can vote for 'The Prehistoric Artefacts of Northern Ireland' and the other categories on the Current Archaeology website.
12/12/2022: Hybrid lecture - Lesser Spotted Europe: a bioarchaeological approach to early farming lifestyles in southern Europe"
Our next lecture will be on Monday 12th December and given by Dr Eóin Parkinson (Queen's University Belfast) - Lesser Spotted Europe: a bioarchaeological approach to early farming lifestyles in southern Europe"
The shift to an agriculture-based subsistence economy is one of the most important chapters in the history of our species. It resulted in profound changes that laid the foundation for many of the aspects that characterise modern society today. Whilst the human bioarchaeology of this process has a long history of study in areas of central-northern Europe, “lesser spotted” regions of southern Europe have not received the same level of intensive research. This paper remedies this exploring the long-term biological trajectories of human societies across the transition to agricultural in the central Mediterranean c. 8000 years ago through an integrated bioarchaeological approach that considers data related to body size, population dynamics, habitual behaviour and diet. The results are interpreted within a broader evolutionary context and seek to promote the importance of multi-method approaches in bioarchaeology.
This lecture will take place in-person in the Elmwood Building, Queen's University Belfast (on Elmwood Avenue). Alternatively, you can watch the lecture on YouTube - https://youtu.be/1t3p5QCq6wk
The Archaeology of Hunter-Gatherer Ireland: asking better questions
Our next online lecture will be on Monday 28th November and given by Prof Graeme Warren (University College Dublin) - The Archaeology of Hunter-Gatherer Ireland: asking better questions
This presentation presents two case studies from Mesolithic Ireland highlighting the ways in which the approaches archaeologists have taken to this material have created a limited and limiting vision of the lives of hunter-gatherers in Ireland. Specifically, we will explore how colonial prejudices have shaped key narratives and how archaeologists have chosen to neglect key evidence. Changing the way in which we ask questions creates a very different understanding of the period, with an emphasis on trust, sharing and creativity.
You can watch the lecture on YouTube - https://youtu.be/5ao6TWUyfvU
Discovery 2022! Conference
Our 6th annual conference on archaeological research and discoveries in Ulster.
You can find out more information about the conference and book to attend either in-person or online here.
Lecture: An Overview of the Viking-Age Archaeology of Ireland
On Monday 24th October Ruairí Ó Baoill, Queen's University Belfast, will give the next lecture - An Overview of the Viking-Age Archaeology of Ireland
Our knowledge of life in Viking-Age Ireland has been revolutionised by the many important excavations that have taken place in Ireland over the last 50 years. This lecture provides a brief overview of some of the important archaeological discoveries that have help shed light on this important period in Irish history..
The lecture will be in person, in the lecture theatre of the Elmwood Building (Queen's University Belfast), as well as streamed on YouTube - https://youtu.be/O4Fv7rqn5uA
75th Anniversary of the UAS
Today (15th October 2022) marks the 75th anniversary of the first meeting of the Ulster Archaeological Society. The Society was established in 1947 with its first annual meeting, consisting of the elections of officers and short, illustrated lectures. Originally intended to support the publication of the third series of the Ulster Journal of Archaeology, the Society’s activities have branched out to include our monthly lectures, fieldtrips, and the survey group. You can learn more about the early days of the UAS in Barrie Hartwell’s account presented at Discovery 2017!, it is available here on our website.
Online Lecture: Exploring Ulster's hidden medieval landscape
On Monday 26th September Dr Laura Patrick, Queen's University Belfast, will give the next online lecture - Exploring Ulster's hidden medieval landscape
This will be a presentation of her doctoral research on rural settlement in Ulster.
The lecture will be streamed on YouTube - https://youtu.be/nahYcU-Wu2Y
Statement from the Society's President on the death of Her Majesty, Queen Elizabeth II
On behalf of the Ulster Archaeological Society, I would like to extend our deepest sympathy and sincere condolence to the members of the Royal Family on the death of Her Majesty, Queen Elizabeth II. May she rest in peace.
Anne MacDermott MBE
President
Online Lecture: 40 Years ‘a Digging: Reflections of an Irish Field Archaeologist
On Monday 25th July Ruairí Ó Baoill of the Centre for Community Archaeology, Queen's University Belfast will give the next online lecture - 40 Years ‘a Digging: Reflections of an Irish Field Archaeologist
This will be a light-hearted look back a Ruairí's 40-year career as a field archaeologist in Ireland.
The lecture will be streamed on YouTube - https://youtu.be/dPd01GllA8o
A recording will not be available afterwards
Online Lecture: Bricks, steel and a lot of Concrete: The Defence Heritage resurvey of Northern Ireland
On Monday 30th May 2022 Dr James O'Neill of Ulidia Heritage Services will give the next online lecture- Bricks, steel and a lot of Concrete: The Defence Heritage resurvey of Northern Ireland.
The lecture will be available on YouTube - https://youtu.be/yG_uleuqvLs
Online Lecture: “If I had a hammer”: Bronze Age metalworkers and their tools
On Monday 25th April 7.30pm Dr Linda Boutoille will give give next online lecture- “If I had a hammer”: Bronze Age metalworkers and their tools
The lecture will be available on YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/c/TheUlsterArchaeologicalSociety/featured
Online lecture: Sacred waters: cures, penance and holy fish
On Monday 28th March 7.30pm Dr Finbar McCormick will give next online lecture- 'Sacred waters: cures, penance and holy fish'
STATEMENT REGARDING THE PROPOSED RESTRUCTURING OF HERITAGE SERVICES AT DOWN COUNTY MUSEUM, DOWNPATRICK
The Ulster Archaeological Society notes with alarm the proposed plans by Newry, Mourne and Down District Council to restructure and, as a result, downgrade the heritage services provided by Down County Museum, Downpatrick.
As the Society understands it, Newry, Mourne and Down District Council are proposing to implement a completely new staffing structure at Down County Museum. This will involve:
- A Curator post, shared with Newry Museum.
- The loss of the Technician/Photographer post.
- The loss of the Keeper of Collections and Assistant Keeper posts, to be replaced by lower grade posts.
As we also understand it, there does not appear to have been any consultation to date with stakeholders about these proposed new changes to the operation of Down County Museum. Down County Museum is one of the museums in Ulster held in the highest regard. Any changes to staff levels, expertise and resources available to the museum will badly impact on its capacity to carry out effectively the very many heritage activities, including interacting with the wider community, that it is so well known for.
A letter published in the Down Recorder on Wednesday 19th January 2022 and signed by dozens of heritage groups, heritage practitioners and concerned individuals notes that the proposed changes “make staffing numbers and resources diminish to a level well below the standard needed for a professional and dedicated museum responsible for the care of an extensive collection of artefacts that reflect the historical significance not only of the county town, but of the region as a whole.”
The Ulster Archaeological Society asks that Newry, Mourne and Down District Council reconsiders its plans to implement their proposed restructuring of Down County Museum.
The Ulster Archaeological Society also supports the efforts made by heritage groups in County Down, especially the Lecale & Downe Historical Society and the Friends of Down County Museum, and by heritage groups across Ulster, to oppose these proposed detrimental changes to the ability of Down County Museum to operate effectively.
We ask that Members and friends of the Ulster Archaeological Society write letters, or otherwise contact, Newry, Mourne and Down District Council and also contact their elected representatives to voice their opposition to the Council’s proposed changes to Down County Museum and let them know how seriously these would affect one of the most vital and vibrant centres of heritage in Ulster.
Finally, the Friends of Down County Museum are holding an open meeting at 7.45pm next Wednesday 16th February 2022 in Denvir’s Hotel, English Street, Downpatrick. This is a meeting to consult with other stakeholders about staff restructuring at the Museum. Representatives of local societies who value the Museum are invited to attend and members of the Ulster Archaeological Society will be amongst them. For further details about the meeting, to show your support or to get further information please contact the Friends of Down County Museum at Fodcmuseum@gmail.com
The Ulster Archaeological Society will keep Members fully informed about any further developments regarding this important and worrying situation.
Ruairí Ó Baoill
President, Ulster Archaeological Society
(on behalf of the Committee of the Ulster Archaeological Society)
Online lecture: 'For want of a horse, the rider was lost’: an introduction to Ireland's Late Iron Age equitation
Our next online lecture will be given by Dr Rena Maguire (Queen's University Belfast) - 'For want of a horse, the rider was lost’: an introduction to Ireland's Late Iron Age equitation
A public stream of the lecture will appear on the UAS YouTube channel at 7.30pm on Monday 31st January. Should the stream not be available, a recording will be uploaded to our YouTube channel.
Discovery 2021! Fifth annual review of archaeological discoveries in Ulster
Our fifth annual conference will be held online again this year. The conference will be free, but registration is essential to receive the link for the Zoom meeting. Further info will be available here on our conference website.
Online lecture: Movements and connections between Ireland and Scotland (and beyond!), from around 4000 BC to around 1500 BC
Our next online lecture will be given by Dr Alison Sheridan (National Museums Scotland) - Movements and connections between Ireland and Scotland (and beyond!), from around 4000 BC to around 1500 BC
A public stream of the lecture will appear on the UAS YouTube channel at 7.30pm on Monday 27th September. Should the stream not be available, a recording will be uploaded to our YouTube channel.
Health and Safety Statement Concerning Activities in 2021
With the increasing numbers of people now being vaccinated against Covid-19, and the continued fall in the number of confirmed cases, it is possible that in the next few months the Ulster Archaeological Society (UAS) may be able to resume some small-scale outdoors activities, such as the surveying of buildings and monuments. This would involve very small numbers of people participating and that would be carried out under strict social distancing and other necessary health and safety measures. These activities will be undertaken by people who are members of the UAS Survey Group. The priority of the Ulster Archaeological Society remains the health and safety of our members and the general public. We will, as always, be guided by Government health advice about what activities are safe and unsafe to resume in the coming months. Any small-scale outdoors activities that the Society may consider recommencing would be accompanied by very rigorous Risk Assessments, including Safe Systems of Work. These will cover the potential risks of the exposure to and spread of Covid-19. All actions and requirements specified must be adhered to in order to prevent such a possibility. Any resumed activities would be conducted safely and in accordance with current Government health guidelines.
For the foreseeable future and until we are advised by Government health guidance that it is safe again to do so, it will not be possible or desirable to resume face-to-face activities that require the sharing of vehicles, the sharing of the same equipment by multiple persons, the sharing of facilities, food or accommodation and any activity that does not allow for adequate social distancing. Such activities currently include conferences, study tours, field trips, workshops and lectures. Realistically, the UAS may not resume these types of face-to-face activities until 2022.
In 2020, the UAS relied on remote/ digital technology to allow the Society to safely and very successfully continue to carry out a large number of activities in the middle of the Covid-19 pandemic. This year we will continue to rely on the same technology to help us. The UAS realizes that the social and collegial aspect of UAS activities is one of the things that most attracts people to the Society. We hope that it is not too long until we are able once again to meet up with old friends and colleagues in person.
We will, of course, keep UAS members updated about all forthcoming UAS activities in the coming weeks and months. Please continue to check the UAS Facebook site and website regularly for details.
With all best wishes,
Ruairí Ó Baoill
UAS President, on behalf of the Committee of the Ulster Archaeological Society
24th April 2021
Online Lecture: Rethinking Early Medieval Whithorn and the Conversion to Christianity in Scotland
Our next online lecture will be given by Dr Adrián Maldonado (National Museums Scotland) - Rethinking Early Medieval Whithorn and the Conversion to Christianity in Scotland.
A public stream of the lecture will appear on the UAS YouTube channel at 7.30pm on Monday 25th March.
Should the stream not be available, a recording will be uploaded to our YouTube channel.
2021 AGM
Our next meeting will be the AGM on Monday 22 February. This will be online via zoom, members will receive the zoom link from the UAS Secretary beforehand.
Online lecture by Dr Gill Plunkett 'How Mike Baillie was right: resolving the links between volcanoes, ice cores, tree-rings and societal responses'.
Our first online lecture will be given by Dr Gill Plunkett (Queen's University Belfast) - How Mike Baillie was right: resolving the links between volcanoes, ice cores, tree-rings and societal responses.
A public stream of the lecture will appear on the UAS Facebook page and the UAS YouTube channel at 7.30pm on Monday 25th January.
Should the stream not be available, a recording will be uploaded to our YouTube channel.
National Heritage Week and the UAS
The Ulster Archaeological Society has teamed up with Heritage Hub NI and the Heritage Council to participate in National Heritage Week. Our project highlights the heritage on our doorstep by showcasing the reports of our Survey Group and research carried out by members of the Society. You can view the presentation of our project on the National Heritage Week website.
County Fieldtrip postponed until 2021
We regretfully have agreed that our proposed trip to County Carlow will have to be postponed until next year, on account of the uncertainty of the current Covid-19 situation. Unfortunately, none of us can tell at this stage how things will progress in the coming weeks and months, but it seems unlikely that we could safely crowd together on a coach and socialise normally, as we would like to do this September.
We will notify members as soon as it seems possible to reorganise the trip.
Update regarding UAS activities and COVID-19
Due to the seriously escalating nature of the coronavirus pandemic, all face-to-face activities of the Ulster Archaeological Society on the island of Ireland are now suspended, with immediate effect.
The UAS field trip to Scotland in May 2020 may have to be postponed or cancelled but we are monitoring the situation closely. A final decision about the field trip will be made by the UAS Committee at the end of April. We will let all UAS members know immediately after a decision has been reached.
The UAS field trip to Scotland in May 2020 may have to be postponed or cancelled but we are monitoring the situation closely. A final decision about the field trip will be made by the UAS Committee at the end of April. We will let all UAS members know immediately after a decision has been reached.
It is regrettable that we have had to take such measures but the health and safety of all UAS members and the general public is our priority. As soon as we are advised by Government health experts that it is safe to do so, we will resume face-to-face UAS activities. We will, of course, inform members as soon as this is possible.
UAS activities that can be carried out using electronic communication, such as the production of the UAS Newsletter and the Ulster Journal of Archaeology, will continue.
All queries about this and other UAS matters can be directed to the UAS Secretary at ulsterarchaeolsoc@gmail.com
All queries about this and other UAS matters can be directed to the UAS Secretary at ulsterarchaeolsoc@gmail.com
Statement regarding the activities of the UAS and the coronavirus
There is uncertainty about how the spread of the coronavirus is going to develop but the Ulster Archaeological Society is closely monitoring all Government directives and those from Queen's University Belfast (in relation to UAS activities that take place within the university) about best practice for keeping people safe and well. The health of everyone is our priority.
It may be that we will have to postpone all UAS activities- including Committee meetings, UAS monthly lectures, workshops, Field Survey Group meetings and fieldtrips for the foreseeable future until advised otherwise. We will advise Members about decisions taken to postpone or cancel UAS activities via e-mail, so could we please ask you all to check your e-mails on a regular basis. We will also be posting updates on the UAS Facebook site and UAS website to keep UAS members and members of the public informed of developments.
Enquiries can be directed to the UAS Secretary at: ulsterarchaeolsoc@gmail.com
Best wishes,
Ruairí.
Ruairí Ó Baoill
President, Ulster Archaeological Society (UAS)
On behalf of the Committee of the Ulster Archaeological Society
2020 AGM
Our next meeting will be the AGM at 7.30pm on Monday 24 February in the Elmwood Building, QUB.
Who was buried there? Funerary practices and selection in late Neolithic burial sites in Southern France
Our first lecture of 2020 will be on Monday 20th January at 7.30pm. Dr Melie Le Roy, archaeology lecturer at QUB, will speak on 'Who was buried there? Funerary practices and selection in late Neolithic burial sites in Southern France'.
As always the lecture is open to everyone and free to attend. It will start at 7.30pm sharp in the Elmwood Building, QUB.
Hope to see you there!
Next Lecture - The Archaeology of Folklore
Our final lecture of the year is on Monday 9th December, given by Dr Roisin O'Reilly on the topic of the Archaeology of Folklore. Lecture starts at 7.30pm. If you arrive early there will be refreshments from 6.45pm in the common room of the Elmwood Building.
Workshop - Meet the Flintstones
There will be a flint workshop next Monday, 11th March at 7pm in the QUB Archaeology and Palaeoecology Building on Fitzwilliam Street. The workshop is being given by Brian Sloan, Centre of Archaeological Fieldwork, School of Natural and Built Environment, Queen’s University Belfast.
Discovery 2019! Conference
The Ulster Archaeological Society at Queen's University, Belfast and the Centre for Community Archaeology at Queen's University Belfast, are proud to present the details of the forthcoming Discovery 2019! Annual Review of Archaeological Discoveries in Ulster conference.
The conference launch is being held on Friday 8th November with a full day of lectures on Saturday 9th Novmeber. We look forward to seeing you all there!
To book your place go to the Conference section of this website.
Knocknashee: Results from fieldwork on Knocknashee Hill, Co. Sligo
The next lecture will be on Monday 28th October with Dr Dirk Brandherm and Dr Cormac McSparron (QUB) sharing the results from fieldwork on Knocknashee Hill, Co. Sligo. The lecture is free to attend and will be held in the Elmwood Building, Queen's University at the new time of 7.30pm. Hope to see you there!
Ancient Genomics and Irish Human Prehistory
The next lecture will be on Monday 16th September with Professor Dan Bradley (Trinity College Dublin) speaking on 'Ancient Genomics and Irish Human Prehistory'. The lecture is free to attend and will be held in the Elmwood Building, Queen's University at the new time of 7.30pm. Hope to see you there!
Kingship and Religion: Framing archaeological narratives for first millennium AD Ireland
The next lecture will be on Monday 20th May with Dr Patrick Gleeson (QUB) speaking on 'Kingship and Religion: Framing archaeological narratives for first millennium AD Ireland'. The lecture is free to attend and will be held in the Elmwood Building, Queen's University at the new time of 7.30pm. Hope to see you there!
In Search of the Irish Dreamtime
The next lecture will be by Professor Jim Mallory on 25th March 2019. The title of the lecture will be ‘In Search of the Irish Dreamtime’, the theme of his fantastic 2016 book. This will undoubtedly be a fascinating lecture.
As always the lecture is free to attend and will be held in the Elmwood Building, Queen's University. Please remember that lectures now start at 7.30pm.
Forthcoming UAS events 2019
We would like to alert members to two forthcoming UAS events that should be of great interest to people.
The first of our 2019 workshops takes place next Monday, 4th March at 7pm in the QUB Archaeology and Palaeoecology Building on Fitzwilliam Street. The workshop is on Osteoarchaeology (bones) and is being given by Professor Eileen Murphy, Head of Archaeology and Palaeoecology, School of Natural and Built Environment, Queen’s University Belfast.
Our next monthly evening lecture takes place on Monday, 25th March in the Lecture Theatre, the Elmwood Building, Queen’s University Belfast, Elmwood Avenue. The title of the lecture is In Search of the Irish Dreamtime: Archaeology and Early Irish Literature and is being given by Professor Jim Mallory. Please note that the lecture will be starting at the new time of 7.30pm.
For further information and updates please keep checking the UAS Facebook and Website
New student membership rate
The UAS are pleased to announce that a new student membership rate has been introduced. Annual membership for students will be £7.50 and will allow student members to come along on field trips and survey group fieldwork. It should be noted that this membership rate does not include a copy of the journal of the newsletters - however, the journal can be accessed via JSTOR and we hope to publish the newsletters online soon.
Click here to join via paypal.
Annual General Meeting
Our next meeting will be the AGM on Monday 25 February in the Elmwood Building, QUB. This meeting and all others this year will experimentally be timed to start half an hour earlier at 7:30 for the benefit of those who have to catch a train. We are hoping to reduce the time taken in the AGM proceedings and these will be followed by three talks / presentations on the Societies activities in the past year and the use of drones in archaeological survey.
It is proposed to change the UAS Constitution at the 2019 AGM to include two new categories for Retired Family Membership; and Student Membership.
The proposed additions are as follows:
(f) Retired Family Membership;
This may comprise of two retired people, living at the one address. Both can take part in all the activities of the Society. They will not receive the Society’s Journal but will receive the printed newsletters and be entitled to one vote at any meeting of the Society.
(g) Student Membership;
Payment of the appropriate subscription shall entitle student members to take part in all the activities of the Society. This will apply to students of any age over 16 years. Student members will not receive the Society’s Journal or printed newsletters and will be directly contacted by the Society by email only.
New lecture time
Please note, UAS monthly lectures will now begin at 7.30pm. It is hoped that this time change will be beneficial to those travelling to and from the lectures via public transport. It will also leave more time for questions and discussion after the lecture.
Route of Táin Bó Cúailnge: the manuscripts AND the folklore
Our first lecture of 2019 will be on Monday 21st January at 8pm. Paul Gosling, lecturer in built heritage in the Department of Heritage and Tourism at the Galway-Mayo Institute of Technology, will speak on The Route of Táin Bó Cúailnge: the manuscripts AND the folklore.'
The famous early medieval story, Táin Bó Cúailnge (cattle-raid of Cooley) is replete with placenames, many of them invoked to identify and explain locations where Queen Medb’s forces camped, fought or simply passed through on their quest to capture the Brown Bull of Cooley. In studying them, scholars have relied almost exclusively on the text versions of the story as preserved in twelfth century manuscripts such as Book of the Dun Cow and the Book of Leinster. However, local lore and the folkloric sources also contain a significant amount of information relating to the movement of Queen Medb, Cúchulainn and the Ulster forces. This illustrated lecture will review the folklore evidence and asses its value as a source for the topographic aspects of the Táin
Remember lectures are open to everyone and are free to attend. Lecture starts at 8pm sharp. Hope to see you there!
Archaeological Investigations of the Spanish Armada Wrecks at Streedagh County Sligo
The final lecture of 2018 will be on Monday 10th December with Fionnbarr Moore (Underwater Archaeology Unit: National Monuments Service) speaking on 'Archaeological Investigations of the Spanish Armada Wrecks at Streedagh County Sligo'. As always the lecture is free to attend and will start at 8pm sharp in the Elmwood Building, QUB. Hope to see you there!
Rediscovering the Lost Sites of East Antrim
The next lecture will be on Monday 19th November when Stephen Cameron from Antrim County Archaeological Society will be speaking on the 'Rediscovering the Lost Sites of East Antrim '. The lecture is free to attend and will be held in the Elmwood Building, Queen's University at 8pm. Hope to see you there!
Coin workshop
The second of this year’s workshops will be on Monday 12th November at 7pm in the Fitzwilliam Street Archaeological Building . Randall Scott will be in charge and the subject will be “Coinage and History. From the fall of the Roman Empire to the emergence of medieval Europe and England”
Irish Studies Seminar - Dr Rena Maguire
As part of the Institute of Irish Studies Research Seminar Series, Dr Rena Maguire (QUB) will be delivering a lecture entitled 'Unlocking the stable door: using equestrianism to enhance our understanding of the Late Iron Age in Ireland’.
The lecture is on Monday 5th Novmeber at 4.30pm and will be held in the Irish Studies Seminar Room (27 University Square, QUB).
Barryscourt Castle County Cork
The next lecture will be on Monday 22nd October when Dave Pollock (Archaeografix) will be speaking on the 'Barryscourt Castle County Cork'. The lecture is free to attend and will be held in the Elmwood Building, Queen's University at 8pm. Hope to see you there!
Annual Dinner
The UAS Annual Dinner will be on Thursday 25 October 2018 at 19.30 at the Park Avenue Hotel, Holywood Road, Belfast.
If you would like to attend, please contact Anne MacDermott (macdermottanne@gmail.com) with your menu choice as soon as possible. Cheques payable to UAS to Anne MacDermott or Lee Gordon please, at next Monday's lecture (24 Sep) or by post.
The Mullaghfarna and Turlough Hill Settlements: More than meets the eye
Our lecture series returns from its summer break on Monday 24 September with Dr Stefan Bergh (NUI Galway) speaking on 'The Mullaghfarna and Turlough Hill Settlements: More than meets the eye'. As always the lecture is free to attend and will start at 8pm sharp in the Elmwood Building, QUB. Hope to see you there!
QUB Open Learning Course -The Archaeology of Ulster: From First Colonists to Modern Times
UAS President and ArcPal QUB archaeologist Ruairí Ó Baoill will be teaching a 10-week long evening course on the Archaeology of Ulster as part of the QUB Open Learning programme for 2018/19.
The Archaeology of Ulster: From First Colonists to Modern Times course (OLE2854) consists of 10 weekly sessions on Thursdays 7.00pm to 9.00pm, starting 27 September 2018. This fully-illustrated course will cover the archaeological story of Ulster from the first colonisation of Ireland in the Mesolithic period (roughly 8,000 BC) until modern times. All significant monument types that can be found in Ulster will be discussed as well as well as the many important excavations that have taken place.
Details of how to book are contained in this the link: https://ecommerce.apps.qub.ac.uk/osoltransactions/catalog/index.php?cPath=104
Creggandevesky
Our summer fieldtrip will be on Saturday, 18th August, when we visit Cregandevesky Court Cairn, Co Tyrone, subject of Claire Foley's recent lecture. It will be a joint venture with the Belfast Geologists, led by Ian Meighan.
A coach has been booked for the visit and will leave promptly at 9.00 from Elmwood Avenue, Belfast. There will be a £15.00 charge to cover this. If you haven't already booked the trip and would like to come, please email rlgordon@ntlworld.com
Evening Fieldtrip to Downpatrick
Our summer evening fieldtrip will take place on Monday 13th August when we will be visiting the ongoing excavation at Downpatrick Cathedral. Please email rlgordon@ntlworld.com for more details
It gives the Ulster Archaeological Society great pleasure to announce that Ken Pullin, the Society's Honorary Secretary, was awarded the British Empire Medal (BEM) for services to archaeology and heritage in Northern Ireland in the Queen's Birthday Honours List, announced at the weekend.
Ken has been unstinting in his commitment and active participation in archaeology and the Ulster Archaeological Society over the last 25 years. He was elected to the Standing Committee of the UAS from 1992-94 and again 1998-99. From 2000-2002 he was Vice President and was then elected Honorary Secretary - the post he still holds today. He inaugurated an annual project to run weekend field excursions for UAS members to every county in Ireland. He also took on the arduous task of developing our annual lecture programme (eight sessions per year) involving the selection and contacting of lecturers, arranging for their accommodation and meals, collecting them from airport or train station and then meeting and greeting our members at the lecture theatre in Queen's University. He has not missed a lecture in all this time. He readily supports and participates in all UAS field trips, both local and to Europe, and our fieldwork programme. Ken has been extremely diligent in this role, attending and minuting all the monthly Committee meetings and the AGM for 15 years. He maintains a digital database of members and sends out regular emails informing them of forthcoming events. In terms of the history of the Society he has transcribed the records of the early meetings which led to its foundation.
At the 74th AGM of the Ulster Archaeological Society held in Queen’s University Belfast on 25th January 2016 Ken was awarded Honorary Life Membership of the Ulster Archaeological Society for his long, outstanding and continuing contribution to the Society and to the furtherance of archaeology in Ulster. Ken has made a real and genuine voluntary contribution to the archaeology and heritage of Northern Ireland over twenty-five years and is a model of continuous contribution to the community and personal fulfilment. No better person deserves to be recognised with a public award to acknowledge his commitment to archaeology in Ulster!
Ken Pullin at Tirnony Portal Tomb, Co Derry, July 2017
Ken Pullin at Tirnony Portal Tomb, Co Derry, July 2017
The Ulster Scots Archaeological Project
The next lecture will be on Monday 21st May with Christina O'Regan (Irish Archaeological Consultancy) and Fintan Walsh (Archaeological Management Solutions) will be speaking on the 'The Ulster Scots Archaeology Project'. The lecture is free to attend and will be held in the Elmwood Building, Queen's University at 8pm. Hope to see you there!
Creggandevsky Court Tomb: More questions than answers
The next lecture will be on Monday 30th April. Claire Foley will be giving a lecture entitled 'Creggandevsky Court Tomb: More questions than answers'. The lecture is free to attend and will be held in the Elmwood Building, Queen's University at 8pm. Hope to see you there!
'A Miserable and Beggarly War': Dispelling the Myths of Tyrone's Rebellion
The next lecture will be on Monday 26th March. Dr James O'Neill of Ulidia Heritage Services will be giving a lecture entitled ‘A Miserable and Beggarly War’: Dispelling the Myths of Tyrone’s Rebellion. The lecture is free to attend and will be held in the Elmwood Building, Queen's University at 8pm. Hope to see you there!
BOOK LAUNCH: Sites of Prehistoric Life in Northern Ireland
Congratulations to our members Dr Harry Welsh and June Welsh on the publication of their new book ‘Sites of Prehistoric Life in Northern Ireland’. The book will be launched on Tuesday 20th March 2018 at 5.30pm in the Staff Common Room of the Elmwood Building, QUB. The book normally retails at £38 but a limited number of copies will be available at the launch for £25. Harry and June dedicate so much of their time to the UAS and the Field Survey Group and we hope you will join them to celebrate this fantastic achievement!
Irish Studies Seminar Series
For anyone who missed Dr David Bell's lecture in November to the UAS on 'Bronze Blades and the Battle of Ballynahinch, Unexpected Connections', he will be speaking on the same subject as part of the Institute of Irish Studies Seminar Series. The seminar will be on Tuesday 20th March at 4.30pm and will be held in the Irish Studies Seminar Room (6-8 Fitzwilliam Street).
Workshop - Coinage and History
The first workshop of the year will be led by Randall Scott on the subject of 'Coinage and History'. Spaces on the workshops are limited so to book your space please email the Hon. Secretary ulsterarchaeolsoc@gmail.com
The Bronze Age Neolithic – re-emerging traditions
The next lecture is on Monday 26th February 2018 and will be a joint event between the UAS and the Prehistoric Society. Dr Alex Gibson (University of Bradford and President of the Prehistoric Society) will speak on 'The Bronze Age Neolithic - re-emerging traditions'. For more information about The Prehistoric Society please go to http://www.prehistoricsociety.org
As always the lecture is free to attend and will be held in the Elmwood Building, Queen's University at 8pm sharp.
Ruling early medieval kingdoms: landscape and governance in the Irish Sea region
As part of the Institute of Irish Studies Research Seminar Series, Dr Paddy Gleeson (QUB) will be delivering a lecture entitled ‘Ruling early medieval kingdoms: landscape and governance in the Irish Sea region’.
The lecture is on Monday 5th February at 4.30pm and will be held in the Irish Studies Seminar Room (6-8 Fitzwilliam Street).
Deer Parks in Ireland
Our first lecture of 2018 will be on Monday 29th January with Terence Reeves Smyth speaking on Deer Parks in Ireland. As always the lecture is free to attend and will start at 8pm sharp in the Elmwood Building, QUB. Hope to see you there!
The Drumclay Crannog Wooden Assemblage
Our 2017 lecture series is almost over, and on Monday 11th December Catríona Moore will give the final lecture of the year entitled 'the Drumclay Crannóg wooden assemblage'.
The Drumclay Crannóg in Co. Fermanagh, excavated in 2012/2013, had exceptional levels of preservation and Catríona's lecture detailing the unique wooden artefacts will undoubtedly be fascinating!
As always the lecture is free to attend and will start at 8pm sharp in the Elmwood Building, QUB. Hope to see you there!
Bronze Blades and the Battle of Ballynahinch, Unexpected Connections
The next lecture will be on Monday 13rd November with Dr David Bell (QUB) talking about 'Bronze Blades and the Battle of Ballynahinch, Unexpected Connections'. The lecture is still being held at 8pm in the Elmwood Building, QUB, but on this occasion, is taking place in Room OG 006. There will be UAS members on hand to show anyone who does not know the room where this is. We look forward to seeing you there!
The Centre for Community Archaeology
The new Centre for Community Archaeology at Queen's University Belfast website is now up and running. It can be accessed at: http://www.qub.ac.uk/sites/communityarchaeology/
From Fishing to Farming, 8000 years of Settlement in the Maine River Valley, Excavations on the A26 road scheme.
Our Monday night lecture series continues on 23rd October when Jonathan Barkley and Colin Dunlop from Northern Archaeological Consultancy Ltd will join us to speak about 'From Fishing to Farming, 8000 years of Settlement in the Maine River Valley, Excavations on the A26 road scheme.'
As always the lecture is free to attend and will start at 8pm sharp in the Elmwood Building, QUB. See you there!
UJA back copies sale
During the 'Discovery 2017! Conference' weekend, back issues of the Ulster Journal of Archaeology will be on sale at the price of £1 each. So whether you are missing a few volumes or are just starting your collection, pop along to the conference to get your copies!
Excavations at Rathfarnham Castle
Our 2017 lecture series will continue Monday 18th September when Antoine Giacometti from Archaeology Plan will speak about the 'Rathfarnham Castle Excavations'. The excavations carried out during conservation works in 2014 yielded a fascinating assemblage of artefacts which we look forward to hearing all about.
As always the lecture will begin at 8pm sharp in the Elmwood Building, QUB. Look forward to seeing you there!
King John and King John's Castle, Limerick
The next lecture will be on Monday 29th May. Ken Wiggins will be speaking about King John and King John's Castle, Limerick. The lecture is free to attend and will be held in the Elmwood Building, Queen's University at 8pm.
Neolithic Crannogs? New research on islet sites in the Outer Herbides
The next lecture will be on Monday 8th May. Duncan Garrow of the University of Southampton will be speaking about 'Neolithic Crannogs? New research on islet sites in the Outer Herbides'. The lecture is free to attend and will be held in the Elmwood Building, Queen's University at 8pm. Hope to see you there!
Irish Institute Seminar Series
As part of the Institute of Irish Studies Seminar Series, Dr Finbar McCormick will be delivering a lecture entitled ‘From Meeting House to Chapel: The evolution of Presbyterian and Catholic churches’.
The lecture is on Tuesday 2nd May at 4.30pm and will be held in the Irish Studies Seminar Room (6-8 Fitzwilliam Street).
http://www.qub.ac.uk/sch…/IrishStudiesGateway/NewsandEvents/
The Distant North Late Medieval Ships and Trade in Gaelic Ulster
The next lecture is this Monday 27th March 2017. Dr Tom McNeill and Dr Mark Gardiner of Queen’s University Belfast will be giving a lecture entitled 'The Distant North Late Medieval Ships and Trade in Gaelic Ulster'.
The lecture is free to attend and will be held in the Elmwood Building, Queen's University at 8pm.
Explore Tower Houses and Other Medieval Buildings of Lecale in partnership with the Historic Environment Division of the Department for Communities
Saturday 18th March 2017
9.30 am – 4.30 pm
Meeting at Down County Museum at 9.20am
Admission : £25
(including 2 course lunch at the Lobster Pot, Strangford)
Join us for this special bus tour exploring the medieval heritage of Lecale.
Visit a range of sites including Inch Abbey, Quoile Castle, Audley’s Castle, Strangford Castle, Kilclief Castle, Ardtole Church and Jordan’s Castle.
Pre-booking for this day of exploration is essential.
As the exploration will be outdoors, please ensure to wear suitable clothing and footwear.
………………………………………………………………………………………………………
Explore Tower Houses and Other Medieval Buildings of Lecale
Saturday 18th March 2017
I enclose my cheque for £25.00 for the full day’s activities, including lunch.
Please make cheques payable to Down County Museum and send to:
Down CountyMuseum, The Mall, English Street, Downpatrick, Co Down, BT30 6AH
(Please note: the Museum is unable to make refunds upon cancellation)
I require/do not require a vegetarian lunch. Please specify if other requirement
(please delete as appropriate)
Name(s) ……………………………………………………………………………………...
Address ……………………………………………………………………………………..
Tel No. ……………………………………………………………………………………….
Email address……………………………………………………………………………
St Patrick's Week Conference at Down County Museum
Medieval Warfare in Down
Thursday 16th March 2017
Programme
9.30-9.50 Registration
9.50-10.00 Welcome by Gillian Fitzpatrick, Chairperson of Newry, Mourne and Down District Council
10.00-10.45 Tom McNeill, School of Archaeology & Palaeoecology, Queen'sUniversity, Belfast
John de Courcy's dilemma: Downpatrick or Carrickfergus as his capital?10.45-11.15 Tea/coffee/scones
11.15-12.00 William Roulston, Research Director, Ulster Historical Foundation
Edward Bruce in Ireland, 1315-1812.00-12.45 Terry Barry, Professor Emeritus, School of History and Humanities, Trinity College, Dublin
Defence in Late Medieval Down12.45-1.15 Questions and discussion
1.15-2.00 Lunch in the Cathedral View Tearoom in the Museum
2.15 Special visit by coach to Dundrum Castle - in partnership with the Historic Environment Division of the Department for Communities
4.30 Return to Museum
………………………………………………………………………………………………
St Patrick’s Week Conference at Down County Museum:
Medieval Warfare in Down – Thursday 16th March 2017
I enclose my cheque for £20.00 for the full day’s activities, including lunch.
Please make cheques payable to Down County Museum and send to:
Down County Museum, The Mall, English Street, Downpatrick, Co Down, BT30 6AH
(Please note: the Museum is unable to make refunds upon cancellation)
I require/do not require a vegetarian lunch. Please specify if other requirement
(please delete as appropriate)
Name(s) ……………………………………………………………………………………...
Address ……………………………………………………………………………………..
Tel No ……………………………………………………………………………………….
Email address……………………………………………………………………………
Identity, Architecture and Conflict in the North of Ireland: New perspectives on the role of crannogs.
The next lecture is this Monday 27th February 2016. Dr Paul Logue from the Department for Communities: Historic Environment Division will be giving a lecture entitled 'Identity, Architecture and Conflict in the North of Ireland: New perspectives on the role of crannogs.'
The lecture is free to attend and will be held in the Elmwood Building, Queen's University at 8pm.
IPMAG Conference 3rd-5th February 2017
The Irish Post-Medieval Archaeology Group (IPMAG) 2017 conference will be held next weekend, 3rd-5th February, at the Wood Quay Venue in Dublin city centre.This year's theme focuses on the theory and practise of Improvement as it impacted Ireland in the Post-Medieval era. For more details please see the IPMAG website: http://ipmag.ie/
The Must Farm Excavations
Our next lecture is next Monday 30th January. We are very excited to have David Gibson from Cambridge Archaeology Unit, talking about the recent, impressive excavation of the Must Farm Bronze Age site in Cambridgeshire. As always the lecture will begin at 8pm sharp in the Elmwood Building, Elmwood Avenue, Belfast. Lectures are open to everyone and free to attend.
Professor Peter Woodman
Our thoughts are with the friends and family of Prof. Peter Woodman. Very sad news today of his passing. He was always a great friend to the Ulster Archaeological Society and will be sadly missed.
UAS Monograph publication
The first UAS Monograph has been published and is available to download for free from this website. This Monograph details the results of excavations at Carnmeen Ringfort, Co. Down carried out by Headland Archaeology from 2006-07.
Ulster Archaeological Monographs are a series of archaeological reports and studies which are larger than would fit within the confines of the Ulster Journal of Archaeology. A major aim is to publish large excavation reports, in PDF format, to be downloaded freely from this web site. The monographs are designed to function as standard academic publications. However, electronic publication is not only cheaper than print but also permits some new developments, particularly to help those who wish to use the publications during research.
Offers of proposed monographs are welcome. Details of the UAM House Style may be obtained from Ulster Archaeological Monographs, as may details of the Content and Format appropriate to an Annexe of Schedules. Please email enquiries to m.avery@archaeol.com
Ulster Journal of Archaeology, Volume 72
The new volume of the Ulster Journal of Archaeology, Volume 72, has now been printed and will be coming through member's letter boxes very soon!
Book Sale - Thursday 8th December, 10am-4pm
Historic Environment Division (formerly NIEA Built Heritage) are having a book sale! With titles covering the archaeology of 9,000 years in Northern Ireland, titles range 'Harry Welsh's Tomb Travel' at £5, Ruairi O Baoill's 'Island City' at £8 and 'Carrickfergus' at £5; this one off sale will provide an opportunity to pick up some real bargains. With up to 70% off books plus numerous booklets, leaflets, slide sets and posters for free, this one opportunity could provide you with some great Christmas presents or additions to your library. Written by some of Northern Ireland's leading archaeologists this is truly a unique chance to acquire some beautifully written and illustrated publications. In addition we have many small publications associated with different sites and guidance for owners of listed buildings - all of which are free.
The book sale will take place at Causeway Exchange reception on Thursday 8th December between 10am and 4pm.
Only cheques or cash can be accepted as payment.
The Origins of the Irish
Professor Jim Mallory will be delivering the final lecture of 2016 on 5th December 2016. The topic of the lecture will be ‘The Origins of the Irish’, this will be familiar to many of you as it is the title of his brilliant 2013 book. This will undoubtedly be a fascinating lecture.
As always the lecture is free to attend and will be held in the Elmwood Building, Queen's University at 8pm sharp.
Bronze Age metal technology workshop
Barrie Hartwell will be running a repeat of the workshop on Bronze metalwork which he gave earlier this year for those people that missed it. This is an informal session for small numbers in which I introduce Bronze Age technology and you get the opportunity to handle actual artefacts. No previous knowledge required.
The street door is locked in the evening so ensure you are there by 7pm so Barrie and please let the UAS Secretary know in good time if you intend to come. Please note that the venue is the Archaeology and Palaeoecology Building in Fitzwilliam Street, not the Elmwood Building in Elwood Avenue where we hold our lectures.
Pub Quiz
The UAS along with the Belfast Geologists and the Belfast Naturalists' Field Club are hosting a pub quiz on Tuesday 15th November. Come along to the Parador Bar on the Ormeau Road at 8pm to get quizzing and have some fun!
Motte, Medieval Church and the Normans at Mount Stewart.
The next lecture is on Monday 14th Novemeber 2016. Randal Scott, UAS and Survey Group member will deliver a lecture entitled 'Motte, Medieval Church and the Normans at Mount Stewart'. The survey of this site was carried out by members of the survey group back in April 2015 and Randal's lecture will tell the fascinating story of the site which he uncovered while writing the report.
As always the lecture is free to attend and will be held in the Elmwood Building, Queen's University at 8pm sharp.
Dun Mhuirich, a place of greater safety. The story of a Clan McNeil stronghold.
The next lecture is on Monday 31st October 2016. Roddy Regan of the Kilmartin House Museum will be talking to the UAS about Dun Mhuirich, a place of greater safety. The story of a Clan McNeil stronghold. The excavation of this important site included support from Queen’s University and the Ulster University and members of the society visited the site during the 2014 Argyle field trip.
As always the lecture is free to attend and will be held in the Elmwood Building, Queen's University at 8pm sharp.
Annual Dinner
The UAS annual dinner will be held at Belfast Castle on Thursday 20th October at 7.30pm. Please email Anne MacDermott ( macdermottanne@gmail.com ) for more information and to book your place.
Weapons, Warfare and how the Vikings changed Ireland
With the summer break over, our monthly lectures will recommence on Monday 26th September. Dr Andrew Halpin from the National Museum of Ireland will give a lecture entitled 'Weapons, Warfare and how the Vikings changed Ireland'. The lecture is free to attend and will be held in the Elmwood Building, Queen's University at 8pm. Hope to see you there!
HMS Caroline Fieldtrip
Just a reminder for any members who have put their name down for the HMS Caroline fieldtrip, that the tour will commence at 7pm so please arrive a bit earlier so that tickets may be purchased. The cost is £12.50 and there is some parking available on site.
HMS Caroline
The next lecture is on Monday 30th May 2016. Victoria Millar will be talking to the UAS about the HMS Caroline - history, current restoration and prospects. As always the lecture is free to attend and will be held in the Elmwood Building, Queen's University at 8pm.
Lisburn Castle Gardens
The next lecture is on Monday 25th April 2016. In a slight change to the schedule Stefanie McMullan and Ruairí ÓBaoill will be talking to the UAS about Lisburn Castle Gardens. As always the lecture is free to attend and will be held in the Elmwood Building, Queen's University at 8pm.
Please note that the HMS Caroline lecture will now be on Monday 20th May 2016.
Francis Joseph Bigger and the Celtic Revival in Belfast
The next lecture is this Monday 14th March 2016. Rodger Dixon of the National Museums of Northern Ireland will be giving a lecture entitled 'Francis Joseph Bigger And the Celtic Revival in Belfast'. F J Bigger was the editor of the second series of the Ulster Journal of Archaeology from 1894 to 1914.
The lecture is free to attend and will be held in the Elmwood Building, Queen's University at 8pm.
The Dungiven Costume: Exploring the archaeology of identity in early modern Ulster
The first lecture of the 2016 programme will be on Monday 29th February. Professor Audrey Horning (Queen's University) will be giving a lecture entitled 'The Dungiven Costume: Exploring the archaeology of identity in early modern Ulster'. The lecture is free to attend and will be held in the Elmwood Building, Queen's University at 8pm. Hope to see you there!
The NI Science Festival
The NI Science Festival will return this year from 18th – 28th February. The programme has lots of events for families and adults including several acitivities and talks organised by the School of Geography, Archaeology and Palaeoecology.
Some events that may interest our members are listed via the clickable links below
Adults
Wed 24th From Forest to Farmland
Wed 24th For the Love of Open Mapping
Thurs 25th From the Cosmos to the City
Sat 27th The Dating Game
Kids & Parents
Fri 19th From Fossil Humans and Animal Bones to Stone Age Tools and Paint
Sat 20th Get Mapping with GAP
Sun 21st Sherlock Holmes, CSI and Geology
Sun 21st Mummy Mania
Sat 27th What they Ate! Looking at Diets in the Past
A full programme can be found at www.nisciencefestival.com
IPMAG Conference 5-7 February 2016
The Irish Post-Medieval Archaeology Group (IPMAG) will be holding its annual conference on 5 -7 February 2016 at Dundalk County Museum. For more information and to view the conference programme please click here
Bronze Age metal technology workshop
Barrie Hartwell will be running a repeat of the workshop on Bronze metalwork which he gave earlier this year for those people that missed it. This is an informal session for small numbers in which I introduce Bronze Age technology and you get the opportunity to handle actual artefacts. No previous knowledge required.
The street door is locked in the evening so ensure you are there by 7pm so Barrie and please let the UAS Secretary know in good time if you intend to come. Please note that the venue is the Archaeology and Palaeoecology Building in Fitzwilliam Street, not the Elmwood Building in Elwood Avenue where we hold our lectures.
27/06/2022 Online Lecture: Idols, ards and severed heads: Three thousand years of deposition in a Roscommon fen
On Monday 27th June, Dr Eve Campbell of Archaeological Management Solutions will give the next online lecture - Idols, ards and severed heads: Three thousand years of deposition in a Roscommon fen
The lecture will be available on YouTube - https://youtu.be/xnrg9aEJzl0