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Chapter 2: Tools of the Trade

Chapter 6: Detectorist Journal

The detectorist’s journal is not just a record, it is a companion. It holds the echoes of each outing: the weather, the mood, an atmosphere,  the soil’s texture, the signals heard and the silences kept. It is a ritual of remembrance, a field-bound archive of presence.

Why Journal?

To honour the land’s voice and reminder

• To track patterns, anomalies and emotional resonance
• To transform fleeting finds into enduring offerings
• To cultivate ethical reflexes through reflection

Suggested Structure

Each entry might include:

Date & Time

• When did you enter the field?
• What was the light like? The temperature? The mood?
• Other people present?

 

Location

• Permission granted
• Field name, coordinates, or local landmark
• Notes on terrain, flora and human traces

Signals & Silences

• What tones did you hear?
• Which signals were strong, faint, erratic?
• What did you not find? (based on research or expectancy)

Finds

• Description, depth, soil type
• Photograph in situ
• Initial thoughts or questions

Reflections

• What did the land teach you today?
• Did you feel welcomed, warned, or watched?
• What ethical choices did you face?

Sample Entry
Date: 4 September 2025 Location: Edge of the Hollow Field, near the elder grove Signals: One strong tone near the hedgerow, faint pulses near the stone boundary Finds: Bronze fragment, possibly brooch; 12cm deep in loamy soil Reflection: Felt a sudden hush when I uncovered it. The soil was warm, almost reluctant. I paused longer than usual. Ritual: Whispered “Who remembers you?” (Be one with the moment, it also helps one to remember details of the find) before placing it in the padded pouch. Will report tomorrow.