Question for those that have asked permission to hunt church grounds...

[Erik in NJ]

Who do you need to get permission from and what is the best way to present (phrase) your request? Thanks for any insight!!

 

[gitterdug]

I talked to the priest of an 1849 church which was closed, but still owned and property maintained by the diocese. I explained to him that I liked to hunt old places for old coins and relics, and showed him a couple of photos I carry on my I-phone to show that I leave no holes. He said to go ahead and have fun, but to remember that if I found anything valuable, I should share it with the church.........the oldest coin I have found so far is a 1916 s dime. Also a couple of catholic medallions. I plan on going back with my 12 x 15 SEF later today, and look deep.

I am along the Mexican Border of Texas, and there should be some really old things here. Back home, I always try and talk to the preacher and basically share the same routine.

HH

Dennis

 

[Bell]

Yep same here. I usually call the priest or preacher (the office number is usually posted on the building) tell them I live nearby and will be respectful and careful. Never been turned away.

 

[Erik in NJ]

n/t

 

[Dan-Pa.]

Problem is most church grounds have been hunted to death and never seen it fail a member of the church will challenge you even though you have permission and pastor will yield to the member under the assumption all parishoners have a vested interest. Many churches also have elders, and the like and tough to get 100 percent to agree..when you have multiple people involved..Certainly worth a try but if its on the beaten path forget about it..Now those churches on back roads in the woods, abandoned etc. are a different story...

 

[amc rulz]

Yeah, sometimes the elders or committee have to "vote" on the subject. I haven't had much luck in those instances. I have asked and gained permission from the priest, pastor, elder.....this one large catholic country church in my area brings in worshippers from miles around, and the italians have had picnics out back for 100 years. Old timers told me the place was picked to death of hundreds of silvers over the years.
I recently asked for and was granted permission, and promptly dug Barber dimes, mercs, and even my first Morgan silver dollar.

amc