Posted by Apollo Mey
Hmm, not a bad Idea! But that isn't uncouth for a explorer to do in a place like this, is it? Im pretty sure it's public land but I just don't wanna go digging up a lesser known historical site without getting some second opinions.
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In terms of ethics and legalities in regards to a site like this, I would want to check ownership, get permission to detect, then turn the spoils over to the local historical society. Not likely anything of real value is there, but very well could be full of some just plain cool stuff.
There is a number of preserved farmstead/homesteads here in Wisconsin within state parks. I have asked permission to detect on the sites. Despite agreeing to turn all the spoils over, they said no
However, their reasoning made sense. I was told in order to do something like that, Forest Dept needs to be onsite, and the site closed. That would prevent others in the public from getting the impression that this was OK. Also, for preservation purposes, you can't just detect and dig. The site has to be excavated just like an archaeological dig and everything has to be documented.
BUT - this location could be handled differently. If you have/have access to detecting gear, it certainly wouldn't hurt to ask!
The unethical approach would be to just do it, and fill your trunk with cannonballs. Still pretty cool, but it does screw others out of the wonder and amazement of a cool and historical site. Not to mention other obvious infractions and just the plain dick factor....