Solving the mysteries of history through science.

• Position: Forensics

"At 'History Detectives,' relying on cutting-edge scientific research applications in a real and concrete way has resulted in some of our most exciting discoveries," says Chris Bryson, executive producer for Lion Television. "The historian's job is so often the tedious work of archival research--plodding through text after text--but, increasingly, science is giving us a whole new arsenal for solving the mysteries of history."

"The series combines the viewer participation elements of PBS's 'Antiques Roadshow' with the gripping forensic science of a CSI-type TV investigation," adds John Wilson, PBS's senior vice president & chief television programming executive. "We're delving deeper into the mysteries of history that can only be solved by a combination of scientific investigation and old-fashioned detective work."

"History Detectives" returns to PBS for a fifth season on June 25. Exploring historical objects and the stories behind them, the series' hosts delve into legends, folklore, and personal histories in everyday American homes, cities, and small towns. Co-produced by the United Kingdom's Lion TV and Oregon Public Broadcasting, the series combines the latest forensic technology with old-fashioned, pavement-pounding detective work.

Up to 75% of the objects examined are provided by viewers. If a proposed item is deemed worthy of examination by the series' producers, one of the History Detectives, along with guest experts, is brought in on the case to investigate the piece's authenticity and value, as a broad array of scientific methods help get at the real truth:

* A senior scientist with The Winterthur Museum utilizes X-ray fluorescence spectroscopy to determine if an unassuming, souvenir-like heirloom pin actually might have been made from metal drawn from the Liberty Bell.

* At The Library of...