Flodden Field Reveals Key Scottish Find
Flodden Field Reveals Key Scottish Find
Chris Burgess, Archaeology Manager for the Flodden 1513 Ecomuseum, revealed, a key find from the site of the Battle of Flodden. A crown shaped artefact thought to have been a livery badge worn by a solider in the personal retinue of the Scottish King, James IV.
Made of copper alloy, the badge appears to have snapped off a hat band. Its design includes the Fleur de Lys with jewels and diamonds, all elements which were known to have been part of the Scottish Crown in 1513.
It was only by chance that this artefact was discovered after having been buried for five centuries as Chris explains, “This latest artefact was quite literally found on the very last day of our last survey on the western side of the battlefield. Having examined it thoroughly, we are beginning to understand its importance. The crown depicted on the badge is quite distinctly associated with the 16th century Scottish crown. Badges such as these showed allegiance on the battlefield and this one would only have been worn by someone directly connected with James IV himself. Our current thinking is that it may have been worn by a Herald or messenger taking his royal instructions to the Scottish Right Flank commanded by the Earls of Home and Huntley.”
Now the artefact has been revealed, it will be formerly reported to Dr. Robert Collins, the Find Liaison Officer in Newcastle for further assessment and analysis. If deemed to be ‘Treasure Trove’ it will be subject to a Coroner’s report and may also be passed to the British Museum for further research and assessment.
The last great medieval battle, Flodden was a turning point in the history of the UK setting the stage for the subsequent Union of the Crowns between Scotland and England. Through excavating the battlefield Chris, along with a growing team of volunteers, hopes to pinpoint the exact location of the battle itself. Contd…………..
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The Flodden 1513 Ecomuseum, the UK’s first cross border museum links 12 key sites and numerous community events. This archaeological programme is part of this wider project commemorate this year’s 500th anniversary of the historic battle with its finding playing an integral part in telling us more about what really happened at Flodden. The aim of the archaeology project is very much focused on connecting people of all ages to their heritage by bringing Flodden out of the history books and into real life.
Chris concludes, “The Flodden 1513 Ecomuseum is a great opportunity to strengthen cross border relations. Finding artefacts like this help us have a better understanding of the battle and how the events unfolded. It’s important to remember, this is not just a date in the history books, it is an event which changed the future of thousands of individuals and families and knowing more will help us to remember the dead on both sides ”
For more information on the all the activities taking place to mark the anniversary please visit www.flodden1513.com.
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For further information, images and interviews, please contact:
Barbara Huddart – Marketing Consultant to the Committee of the Flodden 1513 Ecomuseum. e: [email protected] – t: 01668 283044 – 07980850394
Notes to Editors
About Flodden 1513 Ecomuseum Ltd:
Flodden 1513 Ecomuseum Ltd is a not-for-profit company established to coordinate the heritage and legacy of the Battle of Flodden as well as mark its quincentenary in 2013. An ecomuseum offers a new perspective on how to interpret ‘heritage and association of place’. It is a concept which allows the interconnection of sites or projects which are associated to a central theme or story and does so without claiming central ownership or control. It is a sustainable museum- created, owned and directed by its community- the Flodden community.
About the Heritage Lottery Fund
Using money raised through the National Lottery, the Heritage Lottery Fund (HLF) sustains and transforms a wide range of heritage for present and future generations to take part in, learn from and enjoy. From museums, parks and historic places to archaeology, natural environment and cultural traditions, we invest in every part of our diverse heritage. HLF has supported over 34,000 projects, allocating £5billion across the UK. Website: www.hlf.org.uk
