Project researcher Suzie Thomas has co-authored an article with Anna Wessman from the University of Helsinki and Leena Koivisto of Satakunta Museum in Pori.

The article is titled “Metal Detecting in Finland – An Ongoing Debate” and is published open access in De Gruyter’s journal Open Archaeology.

It discusses various case studies within Finland, including drawing on some of the research from Lapland’s Dark Heritage.

Abstract: This outline article presents and critiques legislation as it affects the metal detecting hobby and the archaeological profession. It considers some of the ways in which metal detectorists themselves have caused controversy but also positive news in relation to archaeological heritage in Finland. A selection of examples of collaboration based on the authors own experiences is presented, also the impact of metal detecting on material culture and archaeological research. The continuing object-oriented focus of both metal detectorists and the media is identified. New collection and engagement strategies could enhance archaeological research, while engaging this particular section of the wider public.