archaECOlogy

On Saturday 4 October, a group of creative young people met in Borgie forest for a fascinating day of activities in the forest’s monumental log cabins. The group were met by roaring log fires and a wealth of talented activity leaders:
Henry Fosbrooke – Woodland Crafts and Arts
Arthur Dent – Tin smith
Elliot Rudie –historian/artist
After an engrossing introduction from Elliot Rudie on the environmentally friendly methods of house building that our ancestors employed, we were then given demonstrations by Henry and Arthur.
Inspired by Henry and Arthur’s use of material and green approach to craft, we set about collecting materials from the surrounding area. As you will see from the pictures below, the group had a fantastic time, turning wood, beating baked bean cans into symbols and constructing an enormous xylophone, which now lives in Joe’s back garden!
A great time was had by all!
Elliot Rudie, describes the green building methods that our ancestors once used.


Out and about in Borgie forest, searching for materials to make our woodland instruments.
David helps Arthur to make the tin shakers.
Freddie making a leather bracelet.
Fredddie's tin shaker.

A real Fred Fintstone axe!


Freddie shaping the keys for the xylophone.

Wood turning demo.


Arthur's tin.


The new Borgie cabin ''wishing stick''
Borgie xylophone, now at home in Helmsdale.