Archeological & Historical Section
The Perthshire Society of Natural Science was founded in 1867 as a result of the ever increasing interest in science and nature during the Victorian era. From the end of the 19th century Sections of special interest developed within the Society.
It was in session 1948/49 that an Archeological and Historical Section was formed and Dr. Margaret Stewart, a local archaeologist was the driving force behind the Section's formation encouraging Section members to carry out any local excavations and surveys under her guidance. She was instrumental in holding seminars and instruction courses on many aspects of prehistoric and Roman archaeology.
In the late 1980s excavation by "amateurs" was discouraged and trained and qualified archeologists were employed, with amateurs providing labour. In recent years members of the Section have had opportunities to assist in excavation work through participation in digs carried out by SUAT(Scottish Urban Archaeological Trust) based in Perth, by Glasgow university and other bodies. Field walking and surveying has been done by small groups of members.
The Section has some 60+ members and, during the winter, holds monthly talks. In summer outdoor excursions are held to historic castles, sites and other places of historical or archeological interest.
The Section has liaison with other Historical Societies in Perthshire and with the Council for Scottish Archaeology, Perth and Kinross Heritage Trust and SUAT. At present the Section is expanding its commitment to "Adopt a Monument" scheme.
Interest in archaeology and study of past heritage has grown over the last twenty years and are fostered by the Section.