If you dislike hunting in the intense heat of the summer, or extreme cold of the winter, use this time to visit your local library or archives. A wealth of information just might be at your fingertips. Ask your Librarian if they know of any civil war diaries the library owns or published books from civil war soldiers diaries. This can be a goldmine of information. Also, ask about any books that pertain to your counties’ civil war enlistments, training camps or regimental history. Don't overlook older time periods, such as the American Revolution, War of 1812 or the 1830's "National Guard" militia days.
Many pre-war sites contain a treasure trove of relics, tokens and coins. Follow the advice you read in Dave Poche's books. You will be amazed at how much information you'll gather inside those pages of his first book. For CD-ROM fans, get his CD edition. Myself and a number of Minelab Dealers carry this informative CD.
Exploring Civil War Campsites by Dave Poche and Wayne Rex
Use everything you can to research and pinpoint where these sites are located. Learn to read maps. There are many online stores that carry many types of maps. A topographical map is extremely useful in understanding topography and learning how to read the logical routes taken by armies. Finding those original roadbeds are the keys to knowing where to start.
Always, and I mean always get permission before you go onto private property. All Federal property is off limits, as well as many State properties. If you stick with detecting private property with permission, you'll spend a lifetime doing it and never cover a 10th of what's in your own State.
Once you have selected a starting point, gained permission, be willing to cover the area with patience. Many times I have found myself going too fast over a property thinking nothing was there only to come back later and discover a prime location. Slow and easy is the best way to cover ground. If you’re having to cover large areas, block it off in grids. You'll have better success if you work intelligently.
By L. David Keith
Dixie Metal Detectors
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