Some say it’s strange or nerdy– others call it boring or tedious. As far as I’m concerned, people can say what they please, but it is undeniable that metal detecting offers a unique glimpse into the lives of the individuals who lived before us, one which few, if any, other hobbies or pastimes can.

Albeit just for a moment, detectorists have the special opportunity to see and experience the world from the perspective of someone who led an entirely different life from their own. Whether it be a penny or a pistol, the objects uncovered are imbued with a meaning that stems far beyond their historical relevance or monetary value. Oftentimes, it is the seemingly mundane, yet highly personal items that carry the greatest mystique– those which were intimately known by whoever possessed them but left unknown or uncared for by anyone else.

Below, I have once again compiled some of my notable finds, this time with an emphasis on their personal nature:

The Brooch

Location: Voigt-Kreit House (16004 Jefferson Ave.)

Description:

I unearthed the brooch just off the sidewalk out in front of the historic Voigt-Kreit House on the corner of Bedford and Jefferson. I had decided to metal detect on the strip of land between the sidewalk and street out in front of this storied home both because of the extensive history of the property as well as the sheer amount of foot traffic the sidewalk along Jefferson has seen. The brooch was only a couple of inches below the surface, and as soon as I pulled it from the ground, I knew I had found something special. Although it was missing its original pin, the brooch’s rim still featured ornate flower decorations, and its center still shined bright with its original metallic colors, only slightly tarnished by its time in the dirt. Given its proximity to the driveway, I assume that its original owner may have been stepping into or out of their carriage when the brooch caught on something, causing its pin to break and pull off of their clothing.

The Boy Scout Pin

Location: The yard adjacent to 1311 Audubon Rd

Description:

After getting permission from my friends who owned the property and the adjoining lot at 1311 Audubon, I spent some time detecting the open yard, turning up several different finds, among which was a well-worn, yet visually striking boy scout neckerchief slide. Despite all of its years under the ground, its blue highlights had maintained a level of their original charm, and the surrounding brassy color had tarnished and become a beautiful orange/brown copper color. Although I do not know the exact date the slide was made, I have seen similar adornments from the 1950s and ‘60s.