Arran's Brodick Castle: Archaeologists Unearth History at Drawbridge Dig

Archaeologists and volunteers discover fascinating artifacts at Brodick Castle, revealing new insights into its rich past.

Arran's Brodick Castle: Archaeologists Unearth History at Drawbridge Dig

Brodick Castle on the Isle of Arran continues to surprise and delight! Recent archaeological digs have unearthed a treasure trove of artifacts, offering exciting glimpses into the castle's vibrant past. Let's dive into the discoveries!

Unearthing History at Brodick's Drawbridge

In 2023, conservation work around the drawbridge leading into the castle's battery revealed hidden drawbridge holes. This sparked an archaeological excavation involving National Trust for Scotland archaeologists, local volunteers, and even pupils from local schools. The dig focused on understanding the drawbridge's infrastructure and locating the foundations of the adjacent battery.

A Silver Coin and Other Treasures

The excavation yielded a range of fascinating artifacts. A silver coin, identified as a silver half groat of James VI & I from the 17th century, stood out as a particularly significant find. Other discoveries included a copper alloy coin (found by a very excited P7 student!), fragments of clay tobacco pipes, butchered animal bones, shards of medieval and post-medieval pottery, and pieces of old wine bottles.

What the Finds Tell Us

These artifacts provide tangible connections to the people who lived and worked at Brodick Castle throughout the centuries. The coins hint at trade and commerce, while the pottery and animal bones offer insights into daily life and diet. The drawbridge itself, estimated to have been replaced with stone steps in the early 19th century, showcases the castle's evolving architecture and defenses.

Community Engagement and the Future

One of the most exciting aspects of the Brodick Castle dig was the involvement of local schoolchildren. These "Brodick Drawbridge Dig Days" allowed young people to learn about archaeology firsthand and connect with their local heritage. The National Trust for Scotland is also utilizing technology, offering a 3D model of the dig site on their SketchFab page for virtual exploration.

Why This Matters

Discoveries like these at Brodick Castle remind us that history is not just something found in books. It's alive and waiting to be uncovered, offering new perspectives on the past. The meticulous work of archaeologists, combined with community involvement, ensures that these stories are preserved and shared for generations to come.

So, next time you're planning a Scottish getaway, be sure to add Brodick Castle to your list. You never know what secrets it might reveal! And who knows, maybe you'll stumble upon the next big discovery. Happy travels!