Archaeological Archives
Once an archaeological excavation has happened it cannot be repeated. The soil has been removed and the original locations of the finds have been destroyed. The archive is the primary record of what the excavation discovered. Find out how to access and deposit archaeological archives here.
In the past paper records, photographs and plans formed a physical documentary archive for an archaeological project. Today these records are normally digital and many are stored with the Archaeology Data Service.
Depositing Archaeological Archives
The Box collects archaeological archives from the City of Plymouth, West Devon and the South Hams. See our collecting area map below.
If you are going to carry out an excavation in this area, please contact our Curator of Archaeology by emailing [email protected] in advance of the excavation.
Requirements for depositing archaeological archives
Archaeological archives need to be prepared in accordance with all the conditions laid out in our Deposition of Archaeological Archives 2024 standard which can be downloaded below.
The Box charges for deposition. For costs, please see our 'Requirements for Depositing Archaeological Archives Form'.
Documentary archives must be deposited with the Archaeology Data Service Deposit data, in accordance with the requirements set out in our 2024 standard.
Forms for depositing an archaeological archive
You can download the forms below for information, but please contact us before you complete them. We will provide you with other forms and templates as necessary for you to prepare your archives.
Information for depositing an archive
Supporting information and useful links.
Forms for depositing an archive
Please contact us before you complete these.