Arcadia Update and Volunteer Opportunities

On Friday, July 6^th this week, from 10:00 am to 2:00 pm, we are having our third public volunteer day and things have really progressed since the last public day in June.  We have moved from small shovel tests to much larger test units which provide us with a bigger picture and has already been able to answer several questions.

Near the structure that is believed to have been a water tower (see June 17) was a suspicious depression in the soil.  Two 1 meter by 1 meter test units provide us with a very clear picture of the brick floor that Eric Swanson, Rylan Thomas, Matt Slycord and Kyle Feriend uncovered.

Along the Eastern boundary of the property Tristan Harrenstein, Zach Sternand and Stan Wakefield were able to answer some questions about unusually dark soil that was found in the shovel tests.  Their units showed that the staining was actually due to a sheet midden (a trash deposit spread over the historic ground surface).

Lastly, Jenny McNiven, Anna Consoliver-Zack and Aaryn Moloney have investigated an unusual feature found with a shovel test which has turned out to probably be an outhouse.  Before they got to that point, however, they found what appears to be two more middens and a wood plank with with a door hinge attached.

This week we will finally begin investigation on what is thought to have been a slave cabin, so come on by and see how things are progressing!

For those who wish to volunteer, this Friday visitors will be able to sift the soil that is being excavated, volunteers should come to the Arcadia Visitor’s Center to recieve directions to the dig site. Anyone who wishes to work outside must bring pants and close-toed shoes, a hat and sunscreen are also strongly recommended.  Water will be provided on-site, but a water bottle is suggested and volunteers should bring their own lunch.

Visitors will also have the opportunity to work with artifacts in the indoor field lab and will be able to clean and sort artifacts recovered from the ongoing excavation. All ages are welcome to both the field school and field lab, but children under 18 must be accompanied by an adult.

Please note, the Arcadia Mill Archaeological Site provides tours of the excavations Monday through Friday from 10:00 to 2:00, but will NOT be working July 4^th.