Get out and walk: A reflection on a walking survey conducted in the Fleet River Valley, Kirkcudbrightshire, Dumfries and Galloway Scotland.

Summary

Information technologies such as remote sensing and geographic information systems have and are changing the way we view archaeological sites.  Historical archaeologists and more specifically those who work in remote, rural, and/or areas of continued agricultural production are finding some of these technologies invaluable.  However, I still believe that a good old walking survey armed with a paper map and compass (and GPS and digital camera) is, for me, the best way to get a handle on what or what isn’t going on. Using the multi-pronged approach to better understand the landscape changes occurring in Galloway during the 18th century and early 19th centuries, I relied heavily on the walking survey to conduct one part of my dissertation research.  Though I employ GIS and other technologies in my analysis, the walking survey revealed more data than anticipated.  This paper walks us through that experience.  (All puns intended.)

This Resource is Part of the Following Collections

• Modern Technology, Past Culture: Emerging Effects of Information Technologies on Archaeological Practice   •
• Society for Historical Archaeology 2013

Keywords

Spatial Coverage

Individual & Institutional Roles

Contact(s): Society for Historical Archaeology

Record Identifiers

PaperId(s): 451