FAME have been pushing for years for a new system for transfer of title of archaeological finds, especially orphan archives, so we are very happy to inform you about a new draft resource for preparing and transferring Archaeological Archives for England. FAME contributed to the development of the guidance to help find a solution for archive deposition and the new resource can be found here:

https://collectionstrust.org.uk/resource/toolkit-for-managing-the-ownership-of-archaeological-finds-in-england/

“The Toolkit for Managing the Ownership of Archaeological Finds in England is designed as an important new resource for individuals involved in the management, recovery, and archival of archaeological materials. It offers guidelines to ensure the secure and legal transfer of ownership of archaeological material, thereby supporting effective archival practices and planning policy. The toolkit consists of a model deed of transfer and guidance covering principles of ownership, advice on transferring ownership of the material archive, procedures for arranging transfer of ownership, guidance for planners, landowners and planning applicants/developers and guidance where landowner consent cannot be obtained.

The toolkit has been developed by Historic England (derived from Queens Counsel legal advice) as part of the Future for Archaeological Archives Programme. It has benefited from initial advice from members of the programme’s Advisory Panel.”

The Toolkit includes a Model Deed of Transfer and sections on:

  • Ownership: the principles of ownership of archaeological finds
  • Advice on transferring ownership of the material archive from an archaeological project
  • Procedures for arranging transfer of ownership
  • for a development project
  • for a research or community project
  • Guidance for planners, landowners and planning applicants/developers
  • Guidance where Landowner Consent Cannot be Obtained
  • Objects already in museum/repository collections
  • Material assemblages stored by archaeological contractors.

The toolkit is undergoing a consultation period of nine months, between January and September 2025. Feedback, can be submitted here https://forms.office.com/e/4rZBiy9PwB  or by emailing FAAP@historicengland.org.uk.