The work of a pioneering archaeologist is being celebrated with a major new exhibition which had its national launch at Bede's World in Jarrow at the weekend.
A Process of Discovery: The work of Brian Hope-Taylor is a tribute to the man credited with being in the forefront of making archaeology hugely popular with the general public.
Hope-Taylor's standing nationally was cemented by a major excavation at Yeavering in Northumberland. He used his skills in interpreting aerial photographs gained in the RAF, combined with knowledge gained from reading Bede's writings, to pinpoint the location of King Edwin's Royal Palace site near modern day Wooler.
His work not only illuminated knowledge of the golden age of Northumbria but also helped to save the site itself from quarrying and gravel extraction.
His passion for archaeology led him to work on a proposal for a post-World War II campaign of Archaeological Propaganda in a bid to help raise awareness of the subject and make it accessible to anyone and prevent the destruction of archaeological sites through post-war developments. This ultimately led to a publicity campaign - History From The Ground - run by the council for British Archaeology in the 1950s.
He also presented a number of television programmes in the 1960s and 70s, which brought archaeology to the public eye. This started a demand in television that today sees whole channels dedicated to the subject.
The exhibition at Bede's World highlights elements of his work, including his excavations at Yeavering, clips of his TV series and plans demonstrating his considerable skill as an archaeological draughtsman.
Some of the work on show has never been seen by the public. The exhibition brings together work from a number of lenders, including the Museum of Antiquities of Newcastle upon Tyne, the Council for British Archaeology, the Royal Commission for the Ancient and Historic Sites and Monuments of Scotland and work held in private collections.
The exhibition, put together by Bede's World's curator, Laura Sole, also involves interactive elements so that visitors can try their hands at archaeological drawing and reconstruction.
Schools' visits have been designed to help pupils learn about the process of archaeology and the importance of using evidence to put together the story of our past.
Explaining the significance of Hope-Taylor's work, Laura Sole says: "Brian Hope-Taylor's work at Yeavering quite literally broke new ground in terms of advancing the technique of archaeological excavation. His remarkable discovery and exposure of the lost buildings and layout of one of King Edwin's royal sites, previously known only from Bede's words, raised important questions about the nature of Anglo-Saxon kingship and the Anglo-Saxon `take-over' of the native British population.
"His archaeological work rescued this vitally important site from destruction and his infectious communication of archaeology to the public laid the groundwork for the wide interest in archaeology and history we see today."
The exhibition opened to the public at the weekend to coincide with a major conference on the archaeology of Yeavering, bringing together experts from all over the UK. It will run until Sunday, July 13, before embarking on a tour of the UK.
NFor details of admission prices and opening times, contact Bede's World on (0191) 489 2106 or visit www.bedesworld.co.uk
A FAMILY fun day to be held at the Bowes Museum on Saturday promises a good time for all.
Theme for the day is Automata, Clocks, Wheels and Gears, with activities beginning at 11am.
Watch the beautiful Silver Swan automaton catch a fish at 12.20pm and 3.30pm and have a go at making your own swan mascot. Learn about the history of clocks and listen to a talk called, History of the Hour.
You can make a simple piece of automata and learn all about the museum's moving objects in a quiz. The North East Meccano Society will also be represented on the day.
Entrance is free to members of the Friends of The Bowes Museum and Merlin Kids' Club. There is a charge for children on family fun days.
* Further details on 01833 690606 or visit www.bowesmuseum.org.uk