Dave Wilton’s interest in history started when he was around five years old.
But now, the 72-year-old historian was getting ready to release his new 210-page book based on the Thames Goldfield.
The launch of Dave’s new book, Archaeology of ‘The Thames’ Goldfield – Volume 1, which is published by Te Whare Pātaka The Treasury, is set to be released and celebrated on November 24 at Carson’s Bookshop from 1pm.
The Thames author and historian told The Profile he enjoyed putting the book together.
It’s based on many decades of “exploring the hills” around Thames as a kid, he said, then later on as an adult, getting involved in archaeology and getting the chance to write them up and record them as archaeological sites.
“So it’s a kind of a selection of the best 30 or so sites that I’ve recorded over the years or over most of my life, really.”
But Dave couldn’t pick just one particular part of the book that really stood out to him.
“There’s a number of them,” he said.
A few highlights of the book, Dave said, were parts about the Crosbie Settlement, the Pārāwai Mission Station and Hall’s Arboretum – but people would need to get a copy of the book to find out more.
The Treasury Publications team member Beth McKay said Archaeology of ‘The Thames’ Goldfield – Volume 1 would be the first academic book they had published.
“We’re really excited to see how it sells. It’s a little bit different and a little bit exciting.”
Beth said they were very grateful to Dave for his generosity as the author was also donating all profits to The Treasury.
“He’s been so supportive of the Treasury for a long time.”
With potential for a further two volumes of the book to be published, Dave said the books were already written and “ready to go”.
“We were just going to try and launch Volume 1 just to see what interest there is.”
People who are planning to go to the book launch could expect to hear a bit from the author, who will share about the book and a little bit about archaeology. Dave said Beth from The Treasury was scheduled to speak, and Carson’s Bookshop would also share a bit of information, followed by an afternoon tea.
But the number one thing the author hoped people would take away from the book was enjoyment, and also “appreciation of the rich history of the area”.
While Dave said the book was focussed on archaeology, which is a study of places and things that humans leave behind: “it’s primarily about people”.
DETAILS: Dave’s book launch at Carsons’ Bookshop, 600 Pollen St, Thames, November 24 at 1pm. Archaeology of ‘The Thames’ Goldfield – Volume 1 will be available to purchase at the launch, and afterwards at Carson’s or online at www.thetreasury.org.nz.
