American Digger Vol 17, Issue 3

Feature articles in this Issue, May-June 2021:

The Button Factory

Although buttons may not have been made at the site, plenty were lost there. This included a never-before noted example from the days of George Washington’s presidency.

By Stephanie Inskeep

The Importance of Ethics

The finds recovered at the Andrew Jackson site by responsible metal detectorists and relic hunters were varied and historical. And then, the real looters arrived...

By Darryl Galloway

C.S. vs U.S. Mainspring Vises

The mainspring vise was an essential part of Civil War musket repair. Although most diggers and collectors think all these specialized tools are the same, new dug evidence shows that the South had its own version.

By Charlie Harris & Johnny Woodard

Mysteries of the Mill 

Paper mills of the 19th century that once dotted the rivers of America are no more. Thankfully, the remaining artifacts help solve many of the mysteries of how an 1800s rag pulp paper mill operated.

By James Stottlemyer

Up the Creek

The urban creek-side dump was void of all life except for one careful digger. His caution and determination under less-than-desirable conditions led to the discovery of stacks of coins and more. 

By Nate Long

Digstock Mini 

Organized relic hunts are not created equal. Invariably, some are better than others, depending on who you ask. However, few would disagree that this inaugural Digstock event held in North Carolina was a success.

By Butch Holcombe