June 2014 Metal Detecting

Historical society embraces modern technology to learn about the past
To the Editor:
The members of Knox Historical Society may appear to be dusty historians glorifying our fragile pillboxes, but we also embrace modern technology to help us learn about the past. On Saturday, June 21, at the Saddlemire Homestead, two metal detectionists will show how they use equipment to discover treasures hidden right beneath our feet. Tony Torrisi and Rob Wolfe will demonstrate metal detecting methods and ask for help in identifying some of their finds.
National Geographic Channel's Diggers shows two entertaining men enthusiastically searching historic places for lost relics of history. Torrisi and Wolfe, while not as colorful, are equally passionate about their searches, curious about their finds, and respectful of historical context. These local "diggers" work carefully and are eager to educate others about metal detecting.

At the Saddlemire Homestead museum, we give our visitors a peek through a window into the past. More importantly, we help them connect local history to their own experiences. Our Wolford quilt reminds visitors of spending the night at Grandma's and sleeping under her quilts. The Knox Cave room inspires people to talk about good times at the roller-skating rink. Similarly, visitors are sure to connect with Torrisi and Wolfe's display case filled with old toys, lead soldiers, buttons, coins, buckles, sleigh bells, and musket balls.

Will Torrisi and Wolfe find the old canning jar filled with money that Grampa buried out back? Or is that just a myth? Find out at our program on metal detecting Saturday, June 21, from 2 to 4 p.m. at the Saddlemire Homestead at 2190 Berne-Altamont Road (Route 156) in Knox, beside the fire station. The program is free, and refreshments will be served. Children should be accompanied by an adult.