Archaeology In Action Program
Weekly sessions; Monday through Friday; June 18 through July 20, 2012
8:30 am to 4 pm each day, rain or shine
Instructors:
Brian G. Redmond, Ph.D., Curator and John Otis Hower Chair of Archaeology
Brian Scanlan, Supervisor of Archaeology Field Programs
In the summer of 2012, the Department of Archaeology will resume test excavations at the Heckleman site, a prehistoric Native American settlement located on the Huron River near Milan, Ohio in Erie County. The program is designed for Museum members who want to participate in an actual archaeological dig and learn the basic techniques of excavation and data recording. Participants may enroll in one to five weeklong sessions. Minimum age 17. Limit 10 per week. Museum membership is required. No experience is necessary.
Over the last three field seasons (2009-2011) CMNH archaeologists have identified and mapped the remains of an oval-shaped earthwork that measures 150 feet in length and dates to 800 BC. The purpose of this enclosure was to demarcate a space for ceremonies, feasting, and other kinds of social activities. The discovery of a pit-house and post molds representing a defensive stockade document the presence of a late period (ca. AD 1400) village site that occupied a portion of the terrace overlooking the Huron River. In 2011, the remains of a large structure were identified within the oval enclosure. This rectangular dwelling is now known to post-date the use of the oval enclosure and provides evidence of a substantial early Late Woodland occupation that dates to AD 600. To see images and information on previous field seasons, visit Blogging Archaeology. The 2012 excavations will expose a possible second structure and delineate the extent of the fifteenth century village.
Fees:
$200 per week. Application deadline is June 8, 2012.
Download the application using the link below. For more information, contact Dr. Brian Redmond at (216) 231-4600 ext. 3301, email aia@cmnh.org.