Old churches have been used for social events, picnics, fairs, banquets, weddings, funerals etc. Many churches have been around for hundreds of years and those old churches have seen a lot of history. Some of that history could have been lost outside somewhere on the church grounds. If you can get permission to metal detect on those grounds you could be in for a spectacular experience. Old churches hold the potential to find some really old coins and relics.
Where Should You Look?
Social Gathering Spots.
Find where the social gathering spots were on the church grounds. Not only have churches held religious services on Sundays they have also been used to hold other services and events.
In the past (and today), churches were used by the local community for picnics, banquets, meetings etc. These gatherings from the past present numerous opportunities to find the coins and relics that others have lost over time. There is no telling what could be underground especially at some of the really old churches but stay clear of the cemeteries!
Big Trees/Stumps Are Great Places Hunt.
If you get permission to hunt an old church look for the big trees or tree stumps and hunt them carefully. Those tress could have been used as shade. Folks would gather and sit under those shade trees to stay out of the sun and when they did they could have dropped something from their pockets. I can’t tell you how many times I’ve found buttons and coins under those big trees. They are the first thing I look for.
Old Church Sidewalks = Old Coins (Somtimes).
Once you get permission to hunt a church yard, look for the old sidewalks. Sometimes the better sidewalks are the ones in the back of the church where people would exit church or or gather for events.
Find The Where The Old Church Outhouse Was Located.
Try and locate the foot path or sidewalk that might have lead to the old church outhouse. These are common pathways where a lot of coins could have dropped and lost. Hunt those paths and sidewalk edges slowly and carefully. An old silver coin could be lurking!
To Get Your Heart Pumping Watch This Video!
Leave The Place Like You Found it.
If you do get lucky and get the permission to hunt an old church just remember to be careful when you dig your hole/plug. Properly and carefully fill the holes back in. Try to stay away from digging holes in the heat of a dry summer. You will just end up killing the grass and you don’t want to do that.
Beware of The Cemeteries.
DO NOT HUNT THE CHURCH CEMETERIES! Not only is this just wrong in general it might just get you thrown in jail. You can bet that you won’t get an invite back either.
This is All Great Information But How Do I Get Permission?
By now you are probably thinking about the churches in your area. The hard part is getting the permission to hunt the church grounds. For many who have never asked for permissions before, this will be your hardest mountain to climb.
Many of you don’t have a probably walking up to doors and knocking on them. For others, this can be very daunting and frightening. But trust me, it isn’t that bad. In fact, I’m going to provide you some simple tips to help you get over that fear and land you the permission. Here is what I do:
- Print up a flyer on what you want to do and take with you. The flyer should include your contact information.
- Most church permission will need to be approved by the church council but not always. Plan on the permission to take a few days.
- Take a few items that you found from other permissions (coins, rings, relics etc.) for show and tell. This takes the pressure off of you and keeps their eyes on the items you are showing them and not on YOU!
- Offer something back to the church in return. Most churches are fascinated by what you find. Many of my finds have been put on display inside the church. Churches love their history and if you can find something from around the year the church was built they will truly get a kick out of that.
- If you are having success but are limited on time, ask if you can return but make sure you establish some form of communication and seek approval the day you decide to come back. Otherwise, you could have a visit by the local police. Always get the permission first.
If You are Still Unsure Watch This Video
I spent sometime awhile back and documented everything I do in order to get a good permission. Its all here in this video and these these tips work!
What Machines Do I Use At Old Churches?
I have previously used the XP Deus at these old churches. Recently, I got my hands on the Minelab Equinox 800 and I have been able to pull up some amazing coins and relics (shown in this video). I would recommend either one of these machines. In fact, if you are thinking about purchasing a new metal detector I highly recommend checking out Fort Bedford Metal Detectors for a great deal. They carry every major brand of detectors as well as all the accessories you will ever need. Give Keith a call and tell him Scott from Mental Metal Detecting sent you.
In Summary
There are many reasons why churches are great places to metal detect and I only covered the obvious ones. If you never thought about getting permission to hunt an old church, you should. Many folks think churches are off limits. But surprisingly most of them aren’t. Be sure to be kind and courteous and leave the grounds the way you found it. Also, leave the church something you found as a token of your kindness and appreciation. You never know when you just might need a reference to get the next church permission.
Thanks for reading! – Scott – Mental Metal Detecting.