While not all "diggers" are bad, some diggers can be obnoxious and
inconsiderate of history in general.  The main thing they want to do, as
you so correctly pointed out, is to unethically and probably illegally,
enhance their own collections and pocketbooks.  I wouldn't be surprised if
many of these types swing thru federal sites after dark and when no one is
around.  However, if someone owns a plot of land, and grants the diggers
permission to go through their property, I don't think there is much anyone
else can do.  It is unfortunate.  People need to be educated about this
practice.   A good archeological site can be ruined.

Arlyn Danielson
----------
From:   Robert T. Handy[SMTP:[log in to unmask]]
Sent:   Monday, November 03, 1997 11:43 AM
To:     [log in to unmask]
Subject:        [Fwd: Pot hunters]

<<Message: Pot hunters>>
Would anyone like to provide me a little assistance with this barrage of
E-mail I am receiving?  A local emailed me last week wanting assistance
from the museum in accessing private, former plantation sites so that he
could hunt for relics with his metal detector.  I responded with an
explanation that we don't provide assistance to "pothunters."  I
attempted to explain that removing relics from a site to bolster private
collections or make money through flea marketing was not something
legitimate museums and archaeologists look kindly on.  I am now being
bombarded by pothunters from all over the country.  Time to rally our
forces.  If anyone cares to join the fracas, you will be welcomed.

Bob Handy
Brazoria County Historical Museum
Angleton, Texas
www.bchm.org