Get Involved

If you think you might be interested in helping with the survey please email Pru at devonhistoricgraffiti@gmail.com. 

As this is a Devon Archaeological Society (DAS) project, ideally you should be a Society member if you want to become one of our graffiti recorders.  If you are not a member and don’t want to join until you are sure that taking part suits you, that’s fine, as you can try it out and join later. Although, if you have a look at the DAS website you might decide that you would like to join the Society anyway and get even more involved in Devon’s archaeology! We hope that you do.

The surveying involves basic level archaeological recording, consisting of taking clear informative photos and filling in simple record sheets. No prior knowledge is needed as training will be given, but a willingness to work methodically, and a certain amount of patience and attention to detail are definite assets. It takes a while to get your ‘eye in’ to recognise graffiti, become familiar with the forms and understand what you are looking at and trying to record. Once we have your photos and records we give you detailed feedback, so we both understand what you have recorded (sometimes there are surprises!) – and we may make suggestions on how you could improve future photos. 

For taking the photos most simple compact cameras should give good enough results. It may also be possible to use a phone that has a good camera. 

Some people work on their own and others form pairs or small groups, where the tasks of lamp holding, form-filling and photographing can be shared. Everyone takes part in the most exciting part of course – finding the graffiti to start with!

 You can choose which church or churches you would like to record. Many people like to do those near to where they live, but you can go wherever you like within Devon. There is no time pressure for finishing a church, so it can be done as and when you or your working partner/group have time.

If you just want to come along to a church with us to see what we do to start with then that’s fine – you will be very welcome. 

We look forward to hearing from you.