The University of Sheffield
Faculty of Arts and Humanities

13 July 2011

Visitors invited to take part in historical journey

Heeley City Farm and the University of Sheffield are inviting history buffs to take part in an archaeological project this month (16-31 July 2011) in a bid to uncover Heeley's past.

The project, which is part of the Council for British Archaeology's National Festival of British Archaeology and the London 2012 Open Weekend, aims to discover more about the Victorian houses that were on Heeley City Farm's site until the 1970s and shed light on what life was like in Heeley 100 years ago.

This community archaeology project, which is now in its third year, will be overseen by archaeologists from the University, who will work hand in hand with the local community.

An important part of this year's project will be the creation of a community archive featuring people's memories of Heeley City Farm and the houses that were on Alexandra Road, Richards Road, Myrtle Road and Ann´s Road.

Dr Roger Doonan, from the University of Sheffield's Department of Archaeology, said: "You might think that there is not much to discover in Heeley but I can promise that we are in for an exciting time. This year we are going to ask a simple question - What did people get up to 100 years ago in their back yards? We're expecting all sorts of answers, from private moments at the bottom of the yard to evidence for hobbies and cottage industries. It's a once in a lifetime opportunity and I'd encourage everyone to come down and join in as no experience is necessary."

Sally Rodgers, Community Heritage Officer at Heeley City Farm, commented: "This is a fantastic opportunity to contribute to every aspect of an archaeological dig."

The event is free and visitors will need strong shoes. The project will be taking place at Heeley City Farm everyday between Saturday 16 July and Sunday 31 July from 10am to 4pm.

Visitors can either just come down to have a look or can book a place to join by contacting Sally Rodgers, Community Heritage Officer, Heeley City Farm, Richards Road, Sheffield, S2 3DT. Tel: 0114 303 9981 ext 4 or email: youngroots@heeleyfarm.org.uk.

To find out more, visit the links below.