September 19-20, 27-28
| Volunteer archaeological field workers are needed! For
four days during September, 2003, the University of Vermont Department
of Anthropology, its Consulting Archaeology Program, and the Vermont Division
for Historic Preservation will conduct archaeological testing at the Shelf
site, an endangered early historic Euroamerican site in Bridport, Vermont.
Jim Petersen, John Crock, Scott Dillon and Ron Kingsley will direct the
field work.
The Shelf site apparently dates to around A.D. 1750-1760, and may be a late French occupation or perhaps an early English occupation. It is situated next to an eroding bank along Lake Champlain. The erosion clearly endangers the potentially significant site. In September, archaeologists hope to map the site and site area; determine the size, depth and nature of the subsurface cultural deposits; and establish the nature of the occupation, whether French or English. Depending on the results of this field work and the wishes of the landowners, a larger, more long-term excavation may be undertaken in the future, perhaps in 2004. The dates proposed for the field work in Bridport include: Friday, September 19; Saturday, September 20; Saturday, September 27; and Sunday, September 28. Crews will likely work at the site from 8:30 AM to 4:30 PM each day. Anyone interested in participating should call to reserve a spot ahead of time. Directions to a meeting place and other general instructions will be available before the field work begins. Participants will need to bring their own food and water, but all equipment will be provided. Please call the Consulting Archaeology Program at (802)-656-4310 if you are interested in participating. |