I found this video rather interesting. Ben Burtt, who is probably best known for creating the characteristic sounds of the Star Wars Universe, talks about recording the sounds for Lincoln (due out in the UK May 2013). Rather than using modern counterparts or random period pieces to record, as often as possible he sought out the sounds of things that were actually in Lincoln’s life–his pocket watch, White House doors and clocks, etc.
Often I have been in an old space and had the sobering realization of those who went before me. Rarely have I had occasion to here the intimate details of a person’s life-sounds, especially one who died nearly a century and a half ago.
I think that is one of the things I love about Edinburgh; whenever I turn a corner, there is an indicator of the city’s age and history.