The Project
The Prestongrange Community Archaeology Project is an archaeology project attempting to identify what survives of the industrial archaeological heritage of Prestongrange, prior to the establishment of the colliery. Complimenting the archaeological fieldwork are programmes of historical research and local oral reminiscence.
Prestongrange is an open air colliery museum located between Musselburgh and Prestonpans. Standing remains of the 19th century colliery predominate the site but also visually disguise the fact that the site has had a lengthy and highly significant social and economic past.
The Prestongrange Community Archaeological Project is a heritage project developed and co-ordinated by the East Lothian Council Archaeological Service and Museums Service. Phase 1 of the project was undertaken between 2004-2006 and was grant aided by the Heritage Lottery Fund. Thanks to the Heritage Lottery Fund, Historic Scotland, the Society of Antiquaries, Scottish Power, the Friends of Prestongrange and East Lothian Council, Phase 2 of the project was launched in June 2007.
The main over-arching aims of the project are to explore and investigate the pre-19th century coal industries at the site. We know from literary sources and historical maps that Prestongrange has been home to a 16th century harbour with an associated tidal mill, fort and vaults; a 17th century glassworks; and, an 18th century pottery-but just how much of these remains survive beneath the ground?
In phase one, the project attempted to locate these remains and archaeologically evaluate them to see what survived of these earlier traditions. The results of this preliminary evaluation have been fed into a more comprehensive project to examine key aspects the site in more detail and to provide valuable information for the future interpretation of the site.
This is a community-based archaeology project and offers opportunities for interested individuals, no matter what knowledge, experience or level of interest, to actively participate in an archaeological project. A 20-strong team of volunteers from the local community and neighbouring counties is currently working alongside CFA Archaeology in locating and investigating the 16th-19th century remains at Prestongrange.
For up-to-date information about the project and any forthcoming events please go to the News section.
