Dumfries and Galloway contains a wealth of archaeological sites,
showing human activity for the past 10,000 years. Details of around
22,000 sites of archaeological and historical interest are recorded
in the Dumfries and Galloway Historic Environment Record (HER),
which is maintained by the Council.
Some of these are well known as visitor attractions, such as
Dundrennan Abbey or Carsluith Castle, but other lesser known
features, such as the remains of 18th century farms and prehistoric
settlements, enrich the countryside. Many of the region's towns,
such as Whithorn, Dumfries, Sanquhar and Annan, also have medieval
or earlier origins, reflected in the street plan and property
boundaries of the historic town centres. Despite the rural
character of the region, there are also well-preserved industrial
buildings, such as mines and mills, as well as more recent features
like Second World War munitions works and airfields.
A quick guide to archaeological and historical sites in the
region will soon be available through a map viewer [due August
2012]. The record is available to view by appointment, and requests
for data extracts can also be made to the Historic Environment
Record Officer. The HER also contains copies of aerial photographs
taken of the region by the RAF between 1948 and 1960, slides, and
other archive material relating to the recorded sites. Historic
maps are available for viewing at the Ewart Library, just around
the corner from the HER.
Data requests for commercial purposes are charged for on a
'time-taken' basis. The current charge rate is £30 plus VAT per
hour, with a minimum charge of £60 (+VAT).