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Maryland Archeology Month

-April 2009-

Sponsored by:

Archeological Society of Maryland, Inc. Logo Maryland Historical Trust Logo
MD State Highway Administration Logo

St. Mary's City:
375 years old, thousands of years young


Maryland Archeology Month is a celebration of our shared archeological heritage - created by Maryland's diverse inhabitants over the last 12,000 years. Protecting this irreplaceable archeological heritage provides opportunities to discover and learn from the past. We invite you to "Get Involved!" in Maryland's past by attending as many events as you can, and by exploring this web site's gallery of archeological mysteries!


Archeology Month Events:


Events by Location


Events by Date




Pre-April and Ongoing Activities

Ongoing

Historic St. Mary's City

Spring Season 2009 - March 10 through June 13 Tuesday through Saturday, 10 a.m. until 5 p.m. The entire site is open Tuesday through Saturday, 10 a.m. until 5 p.m. The entire site is closed on Sunday and Monday with one exception: everything is open on Maryland Day, March 29.. $10.00 adult, $8 seniors (60+), $6.00 student (13-18 years or college ID), $3.50 ages 6-12, Child (5 and under) free. Summer and Fall Seasons 2009 - June 17 through November 29 The entire museum will be open Wednesday - Sunday, 10 a.m. until 5 p.m. $10.00 adult, $8 seniors (60+), $6.00 student (13-18 years or college ID), $3.50 ages 6-12, Child (5 and under) free. Audio tour rentals are an additional $3.

Exhibit: Once the Metropolis of Maryland: The History and Archaeology of : Maryland’s First Capital

Discription: An exhibit that chronicles the history and archaeology of St. Mary’s City. The exhibit features original paintings, artifacts, and reproduced graphics to introduce and orient visitors to Historic St. Mary’s City.

Sponsor: Historic St. Mary’s City

Location: Historic St. Mary’s City Visitor’s Center

Time: see above

Fee: Free with purchase of museum admission

Contact: 1-800-SMC-1634 or 240-895-4990

Exhibit Rebuilding the Brick Chapel :

Discription: An exhibit that outlines the history and archaeology of the Chapel of 1667 in St. Mary’s City. The exhibit features paintings, artifacts, and reproduced graphics to explain the process of recreating this unique and significant building.

Sponsor: Historic St. Mary’s City

Location: Historic St. Mary’s City Visitor’s Center

Time: see above

Fee: Free with purchase of museum admission ticket

Contact: 1-800-SMC-1634 or 240-895-4990

Tour: Living History and More

Discription: Historic St. Mary’s City offers a variety of historic interpretations of Maryland in the 17th century. Reconstructions include a Woodland Indian Hamlet, William Nuthead’s Print House, Smith’s Ordinary, Cordea’s Hope, the State House of 1676, the Maryland Dove (a recreated 17th-century ship), and a 17th-century tobacco plantation. The new St. John’s Site Museum preserves the foundation of the building where many of Maryland’s “firsts” occurred. Exhibits explore the state’s legacy of liberty and how archaeologists know what they know about the past.

Sponsor: Historic St. Mary’s City

Location: St. Mary’s City

Time: see above.

Fee: $10.00 adult, $8 seniors (60+), $6.00 student (13-18 years or college ID), $3.50 ages 6-12, Child (5 and under) free

Contact: 1-800-SMC-1634 or 240-895-4990

Exhibit: Northampton Slave Quarters and Archaeological Park

Description: This historic site features reconstructed foundations of two slave quarters from the former Northampton Plantation (1673-1860). Archaeological excavations have recovered artifacts and information about the lives of African American slaves and tenant farmers who lived there from the late 18th through the mid-20th century. Interpretive signage describes site’s history and ongoing research.

Sponsor: M-NCPPC, Natural and Historical Resources Division

Location: 10915 Water Port Court Bowie, MD 20721

Times: Daily, sunrise to sunset.

Contact: Mike Lucas (301)-6227-1286; TTY (301) 699-2544

Exhibit: Cherry Hill Cemetery

Description: Cherry Hill Cemetery is a late 1800s African American family burial ground. Established in 1884 on the farm of Josiah Adams, it is significant as the only intact African American family farm cemetery in the Bladensburg-Riversdale-Hyattsville area. Graves are marked with slabs of local ironstone and yucca plants. Many African American families, such as the Adams, Beckett, and Plummer families, buried their loved ones at Cherry Hill from the late 1880s through the 1940s.

Sponsor: M-NCPPC, Natural and Historical Resources Division

Location: 6821 Ingraham Street, between Oliver Street and Beacon Place Riverdale, MD, 20737

Times: Daily, sunrise to sunset.

Contact: Mike Lucas (301)-6227-1286; TTY (301) 699-254

April 1- October 31

Exhibit: Mount Calvert Historical and Archaeological Park

Description: The Mount Calvert Historical and Archaeological Park interprets a broad range of Pince George's County's history. An exhibit, A Confluence of Three Cultures, interprets the archaeology and history of American Indians, the colonial town of Charles Town, Prince George's first seat of government, and the lives of enslaved African Americans. Archaeology tours will be offered every Saturday from April 11 through October. This summer's excavation will focus on an early eighteenth century (1700-1720) domestic structure from Charles Town.

Sponsor: M-NCPPC, Natural and Historical Resources Division

Location: 16801 Mount Calvert Road, Upper Marlboro, MD 20772

Times: Park grounds hours: 8:00am-sunset Exhibit hours: April - October Saturdays 10:00am-4:00pm, & Sundays 12:00-4:00pm

Contact: Mike Lucas (301)-6227-1286; TTY (301) 699-2544

March 1-April 30

Exhibit: “We Shall Remain”

Description: Several prominent large display cases at the Frederick County Public Library central library will be dedicated to a two-month long exhibit devoted to prehistoric peoples and lifeways in central Maryland. The exhibition will feature both excavated archaeological remains and reproductions of materials and items that often do not survive the archaeological record. The display is a contributing element of the Community Engagement Campaign for the PBS Television Series “We Shall Remain” to air in April. The miniseries is an American Experience depiction of Native perseverance and cultural course since European contact.

Sponsor: Frederick County Public Library and Monocacy Archaeological Society Location: C. Burr Artz Library 110 East Patrick Street Frederick, MD 21701

Times: Sunday 1:00-5:00, Monday-Thursdays 10:00-9:00, Friday and Saturday 10:00 - 5:00

Contact: Nancy Geasey; (301) 378-0212

March 21

Lecture:Written in Bone: Tales from 17th-Century Graves

Discription: Dr. Douglas Owsley will present a lecture on his forensic studies and the new Smithsonian exhibit Written in Bone.

Sponsor: Historic St. Mary’s City

Location: Auerback Auditorium, St. Mary's Hall, St. Mary's College of Maryland, St. Mary’s City

Time: 2:00 PM

Fee: Free admission

Contact: 1-800-SMC-1634 or 240-895-4990 HSMC

 


Month-Long Activities

March 1-April 30

Exhibit: “We Shall Remain”

Description: Several prominent large display cases at the Frederick County Public Library central library will be dedicated to a two-month long exhibit devoted to prehistoric peoples and lifeways in central Maryland. The exhibition will feature both excavated archaeological remains and reproductions of materials and items that often do not survive the archaeological record. The display is a contributing element of the Community Engagement Campaign for the PBS Television Series “We Shall Remain” to air in April. The miniseries is an American Experience depiction of Native perseverance and cultural course since European contact.

Sponsor: Frederick County Public Library and Monocacy Archaeological Society Location: C. Burr Artz Library 110 East Patrick Street Frederick, MD 21701

Times: Sunday 1:00-5:00, Monday-Thursdays 10:00-9:00, Friday and Saturday 10:00 - 5:00

Contact: Nancy Geasey; (301) 378-0212

April 1-30

Display: The Archeology of Western Maryland

Description: The Western Maryland Chapter of the Archeological Society of Maryland, Inc., will mount a window display on regional archeology at the La Vale Library throughout the month of April.

Sponsor: The Western Maryland Chapter of the Archeological Society of Maryland, Inc.

Location: LaVale Library, 815 National Highway, LaVale, MD 21502

Time: 7:30 PM

Contact: Roy Brown, 301.724.7769

April 1-30

Display: Cecil County Library Poster and artifact informational displays

Description: Local and statewide events will be showcased, along with the archaeology month poster and artifacts, at appropriate display locations at public libraries and institutions. Information about archaeology month and how to get involved will be available for the public

Sponsor: ASNC (Archaeological Society of the Northern Chesapeake)

Location: Perryville Branch, Cecil County Public Library, 500 Coudon Blvd., Perryville, MD 21903,

Time Mon-Thurs 10:00 AM -9:00 PM, Fri-Sat, 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM

Fee: Free

Contact: Dan Coates, 410.273.9619

April 1-30

Exhibits: Archaeology in Annapolis

Description: Archaeological exhibits are available for all to see at Reynold's Tavern, the Calvert House Hotel, and the Jonas Green House in Annapolis. As a part of the Annapolis Charter 300 Celebration, permanent exhibits were mounted in the public spaces of the Reynold's Tavern and in the lobby of the Calvert House Hotel. Reynold's Tavern dates from 1747 and archaeological remains excavated by Archaeology in Annapolis during the 1980s can be seen in a special case mounted in the foyer. The Calvert House Hotel is built over the home of the Calverts on State Circle. Many of the prize artifacts from the excavation done in the 1980s are on display on the main floor. The Jonas Green House is still owned by his descendants and an important exhibit is mounted on the main floor. The Green House is open only by appointment.Also available for viewing is a special exhibit entitled "Seeking Liberty".

Sponsor: Archaeology in Annapolis

Location: 58 State Circle (Calvert House) 7 Church Circle (Reynold's Tavern) and 124 Charles Street (Jonas Green House)

Times: Daily (The Green House is open only by appointment.)

Fee: Free

Contact: Calvert House Inn, Jonas Green House, and Reynold's Tavern

April 1-30

Display: Archaeology Month 2009 Displays

Institution: Harford County libraries Time see branch information below

Description: Local and statewide events will be showcased, along with the archaeology month poster and artifacts, at appropriate display locations at public libraries and institutions. Information about archaeology month and how to get involved will be available for the public.

Sponsor: ASNC (Archaeological Society of the Northern Chesapeake)

Location: Havre de Grace Branch, Harford County Public Library, 120 N. Union Ave. Havre de Grace, MD 21078

Times: Mon-Tues-Thurs 10:00 A.M. - 8:00 P.M. Wednesday 1:00 P.M. - 8:00 P.M, Friday 10:00 A.M. - 5:00 P.M. Saturday 10:00 A.M. - 5:00 P.M.

Contact: Bill McIntyre, 410.939.0768,

Harford Community College Library, 401 Thomas Run Road, Bel Air, MD 21015-1698, Monday – Thursday, 7:30am - 10:00pm, Friday 7:30am - 4:30pm, Saturday 10:00am - 4:00pm, Sunday 12:00pm - 4:00pm

Contact: . Sharon Stowers, 443-412-2059

Old Line Museum, 640 Main Street, Delta, PA, call for times Contact: Jack Davis, 410.734.6357,

April 1-30

Exhibit: Archeological Material from 1627 Aliceanna, c. 1797

Description: Exhibit: Artifacts from recent excavations will be on display, as well as new information about one of the oldest surviving wooden buildings in Baltimore, and the cosmogram from 1627 Aliceanna

Sponsor: The Preservation Society

Location: 1724-26 Thames Street, Baltimore MD 21231

Time: Noon-5:00 PM., closed Mondays

Fee: Free

Contact: Ellen von Karajan

 


1-4 April 2009


April 4

Symposium:: Archeological Society of Maryland's Spring Symposium

Colonial Archeology: Investigating & Celebrating Maryland’s 375th Birthday

Description: A Brief History of Archaeology in Maryland’s First Capital Silas D. Hurry, Historic St. Mary’s City Commission This presentation details the history of archaeological investigations in St. Mary’s City from the period of antiquarian enquiry through the modern era of scientific archaeology. A range of interesting characters will be presented and the results of their explorations explained. Much of this story focuses on the past 40 years when St. Mary’s has provided a virtual laboratory for the development of the discipline of historical archaeology.

Three Decades of Archaeology on St. John’s Freehold Ruth M. Mitchell, Historic St. Mary’s City Commission Archaeology conducted in the 1970s revealed a story-and-a-half English framed dwelling, known as St. John’s. The 1638 building reflects English architectural practices that were soon modified. Post-in-the-ground additions and support structures were found throughout the site. Recent excavations shed new light on the architectural changes found throughout the site.

The Richard E. Stearns Memorial Lecture Burial Archaeology in the Chapel Field at St. Mary’s City Timothy B. Riordan, Historic St. Mary’s City Commission Since 1983 HSMC has identified over 250 graveshafts in the Chapel Field and evidence suggests that there may be as many as 1000 people buried in this field. Starting with the spectacular discovery of the lead coffins in 1990, burial archaeology has been an important part of understanding the use and meaning of the Chapel site. Since 1990, 65 burials have been excavated and the remains of 75 individuals removed. Because of the unique circumstances of the Chapel Field site, it has been possible to divide the burials into three equal periods, spanning 1638-1730. Insights on coffin shape, use, and construction are outlined. The context of “shroud pins,” commonly found in 17th-century burials, is explored, and the significance of changes in burial patterns considered.

The Iris McGillivray Memorial Lecture A Comparative Analysis of a 17th Century Dutch Plantation Site on the Eastern Shore to Known 17th Century Archeological Sites in the Upper Chesapeake Bay Bruce Thompson, Maryland Historical Trust. Archeologists have probed ever deeper into the archeological evidence for colonial life in middle to late 17th-century Maryland. Geographically, those efforts focused on sites along the western shores of the Chesapeake Bay. Using primary documents, artifact analysis and Maryland Historical Trust’s “Comparative Archaeological Study of Colonial Chesapeake Culture,” this paper offers a comparative look at a mid- to late-17th-century Dutch site called the Grieb Site (18KE83) located on the Chester River.

Into the Zekiah: The Untold History Julia A. King, Scott M. Strickland, and Michael J. Sullivan, Zekiah Swamp in Charles County was the setting for some of the most colorful places and events in the colony's history: Lord Baltimore’s summer house, the Piscataway Indian’s Fort Zekiah, and the county and race track. For all of this interesting history, very little archaeology has been done in the Zekiah Swamp. Beginning in late 2007, a partnership involving St. Mary's College of Maryland, the College of Southern Maryland, and a consortium of interested businessmen in Charles County began a long-term project to map the Zekiah's patent history and identify important 17th-century sites. This presentation describes those sites that have been found, including the Court House, John Pryor's store, and Johnsontown, as well as the progress to date searching for Major Boarman's dwelling plantation, Lord Baltimore's summer house, and, most significantly, the Zekiah Fort.

Discovering Port Tobacco: the ASM Annual Field Session James G. Gibb, Port Tobacco Archaeological Project Less than two years of archaeological survey and testing at the Colonial town site of Port Tobacco in Charles County has revealed the probable location of Potobac (mapped by Captain John Smith in 1608), a previously unknown Colonial period cemetery, several early to mid-18th century house sites, the County’s third generation jail (1859-1897), and several well-defined Archaic sites. This presentation summarizes the research completed to date and discusses the annual field session which will occur at Port Tobacco from May 22 through June 1.

Sponsor: Archeological Society of Maryland, Inc., Historic St. Mary’s City, and the Maryland Historical Trust Office of Archeology

Location: Historic St. Mary's City Visitor Center

Times: 9:00 AM – 3:00 PM

Fee: $5.00 for members of the Archeological Society of Maryland $7.00 for non-members

Contact: Jim Gibb

April 4

Workshop:: Historic Ceramics Identification Workshop

Description: Learn how to identify historic ceramics commonly found at archaeology sites

Sponsor: The Lost Towns Project

Location: Historic London Town and Gardens, 839 London Town Road, Edgewater, MD 21037

Times: 9:00 AM – 3:00 PM

Fee: $5 for general public, free for members or volunteers Pre-Registration is required (limited space available)

Contact: Jessie Grow, 410 222 1318


5-11 April 2009


April 5

Event: Archaeology Month Festival, Archaeology in our backyards

Description: Explore how history happens every day and what your role is in exploring and preserving the past through archaeological techniques. View displays and take part in hands-on activities while learning about life along the water from prehistoric times to the present. Family friendly event.

Fee: Free to museum members and with regular paid admission. Adults $3.50, Seniors, students, military $2.50, children 8 and under are free.

Sponsor: ASNC and Havre de Grace Maritime Museum

Time: 11:00 AM – 5:00 PM

Location: 100 Lafayette Street, Havre de Grace, Maryland

Contact: Ann Persson, 410.272.3425

April 6

Public Lecture: Carroll County Archaeology: Stories of the Past, by Archaeologist, Stephen Israel.

Description: The public lecture will cover an overview of Carroll County archaeology, the variety of archaeology projects in Carroll County, and Stephen Israel’s previous and current archaeological investigations in Carroll County.

Sponsor: Carroll County Public Library, North Carroll Branch

Location: North Carroll Branch Public Library, 2255 Hanover Pike, Greenmount, MD 21074

Time: 7:00 PM

Fee: None.

Contact: Kristina Peters (410) 386-4480.

April 8

Lecture and Demonstration: “A Twenty Minute Arrow” by Guy Neal

Sponsor: Monocacy Archaeological Society and Mid-Atlantic Primitive Skills Group

Location: C. Burr Artz Library 110 East Patrick Street Frederick, MD 21701

Times: 7:00-9:00 PM

Contact: Nancy Geasey; (301) 378-0212

April 11

Tour: Archaeology Walking Tour of Hampden

Description: A 1-2 hour walking tour of Hampden, Baltimore's "Mill Village in an Urban Setting." Participants will tour the neighborhood's archaeological and historic sites, learning about the historical development of the industrial landscape, as well as HCAP's efforts to engage the community through archaeology. The tour will conclude in Hampden's 36th Street shopping district, where participants will be able to enjoy the neighborhood's eclectic assortment of retail establishments and restaurants. Participants should be able to negotiate moderately steep hills and moderately difficult on- or off- pavement terrain. Comfortable walking shoes a must.

Sponsor: The University of Maryland's Center for Heritage Resource Studies, and the Hampden Community Archaeology Project

Location: Tour begins at Roosevelt Recreation Center at 1121 W. 36th Street.

Time: 10:00 AM

Fee: Free

Contact: David Gadsby. More information can be found at: www.hampdenheritage.blogspot.com or at the Center for Heritage Resource Studies Website

April 11

Workshop: Artifact Identification and Responsible Archaeology

Description: Former state Archeologist Richard Hughes along with Dr. Elizabeth Ragan professor at Salisbury University and Dr. Virginia Busby will be on hand to identify Native American and Colonial artifacts. They will also discuss proper techniques and procedures used in recording and preserving artifact finds. There will also be a display of artifacts from the Vienna Heritage Museum by Terry Crannell.

Sponsor: Vienna Heritage Museum

Location: 303 Race Street, Vienna, MD 21869

Time: 10:00 AM - 4:00 PM

Contact: Tom Bradshaw at 410-943-1212


12-18 April 2009


April 16

Lecture and Display: History and Heritage: Celebrate Local Archaeology

Description: Dr. Charles Hall, Maryland State Tersetial Archaeologist will give a presentation on the History and Heritage: of Local Archaeology with an accompanying display sponsored by the Monocacy Archaeological Society

Sponsor: Archaeological Society of Maryland

Location: Thurmont Regional Library 76 East Moser Road. Thurmont, MD 21788

Time: 7:00 PM

Contact: Nancy Geasey; (301) 378-0212

April 17

Lecture: Paul Cresthull Memorial Lecture

Description: Dr. Bruce Thompson will present the findings of his recent work on the Grieb site, titled Examining a 17th-century Dutch Plantation site on the Chester River. Open to the public at no charge. Light refreshments served. A poster presentation will begin at 6:30 PM showcasing the research projects of students in the Introduction to Cultural Anthropology and Archaeology of Maryland classes.

Sponsor: HCC Behavioral and Social Sciences and History Departments, Archeological Society of the Northern Chesapeake

Location: Harford Community College, 401 Thomas Run Road, Edgewood Hall (Room 132), Bel Air, MD 21015-1698

Time: 6:30 PM

Contact: Dr. Sharon Stowers, Division of Social Sciences 443-412-2059

April 18

Event: Discovering Archaeology Day at Jefferson Patterson Park & Museum

Description: Discover the where, what, and how of archaeology, as we highlight our new exhibit “The FAQs of Archaeology.” Tour the Maryland Archaeological Conservation Laboratory (1 & 3 p.m.). Learn about archaeology through educational walks, activities, and demonstrations and exhibits by archaeologists from across the region.

Sponsor: Jefferson Patterson Park & Museum

Location: 10515 Mackall Rd., St. Leonard, MD 20685

Time: 10:00 AM. – 5:00 PM.

Contact: Michele Parlett at 410-586-8501, or email jppm@mdp.state.md.us.

April 18

Activity: River Sweep

Description: Preserving our cultural resources begins with saving our natural resources. River Sweep 2009 will focus on Garrett Island, the site of 10,000 years of human activity and geological wonder. T-shirt and lunch provided, call to register.

Sponsor: ASNC and Friends of Garrett Island Location: Perryville Community Park, Perry Point, Maryland 21902

Time 9:00 AM- 12:00 PM

Fee: Free

Contact: Jack Davis, 410.734.6357

April 18

Demonstration and Display: Prehistoric Technologies Demonstration

Description: Archaeologist and primitive technologist, Bill Schindler (Washington College), will demonstrate a variety of primitive technologies the Native Americans of Maryland relied upon for thousands of years. Prehistoric fishing, stone tool, ceramic, and fire production technologies will be covered. Replications and artifacts will be on display.

Sponsor: Washington College Sociology and Anthropology Department, Center for Environment and Society, Chesapeake Bay Maritime Museum

Location: Chesapeake Bay Maritime Museum, St. Michaels, MD

Time(s): 10:00 AM. – 12:00 PM., 1:00 PM. – 5:00 PM.

Contact: Bill Schindler (410) 778-8993

April 18

Lecture: "Over the Sea to Somerset: Seventeenth-Century Trade in a Neglected Corner of the Chesapeake"

Description: While the Lower Shore is considered a “backwater” today, in the early colonial period water was the highway. David Browne was a Scottish merchant-planter who profited handsomely from Somerset’s trade, and analysis of artifacts recovered from the site of his home reveal the extent of his transatlantic connections.

Sponsor: Nabb Center for Delmarva History and Culture

Location: Nabb Center; Salisbury University; Power Professional Building Suite #190; Wayne Ave.; Salisbury, MD l

Time: 2:00 PM

Contact: Elizabeth Ragan; 410-548-4502


19-25 April 2009


April 20

Workshop and Lecture : The Simpsonville Mill: 240 Years of Entrepreneurship in Howard County

Description: This 2-hour, powerpoint driven workshop will allow participants to handle artifacts and documents (deeds, wills, inventories, letters, indentures, maps, manumissions, etc.) associated with the 18th-20th century owners of the Simpsonville Mill (Howard County, formerly Anne Arundel) including the: Warfield’s, Howard’s, Owings, Simpson’s, Brayshaws, Wellings and Igleharts.

Sponsor: The Upper Patuxent Archaeology Group

Location: Historic Mt. Ida, in Ellicott City

Time: 7:00 PM -9:00 PM (Doors open 6:30 PM)

Contact: Reservations Required Call Mt. Ida at 410-465-8500 before April 16, 2009, to reserve a spot and for directions.

April 22

Workshop: Community Archaeology Project Workshop on Material Culture:

Description:.Hampden Community Archaeology Project Workshop on Material Culture Archaeology does not end when the shovels and trowels are put away. Archaeologists must then wash away the dirt in order to reveal the details of the history they've unearthed, and to make sense of their results. Excavations conducted in Hampden during the summers of 2005-2007 resulted in the recovery of 60,000 artifacts, some of which will be available for viewing a the HCAP workshop. Visitors will have a chance to learn about the Hampden Community Archaeology Project, see some examples of the artifacts from archaeological sits in the neighborhood, and share your thoughts on Hampden history.

Sponsor: Hampden Community Archaeology Project

Location: Roosevelt Recreation Center, 1121 36th Street, Baltimore.

Time: 7:00 PM

Fee: Free

Contact: David Gadsby. More information can be found at: www.hampdenheritage.blogspot.com or at the Center for Heritage Resource Studies Website

April 24

Lecture/Presentation: Antietam and the Archaeology of Tactics, Stephen R. Potter, Ph.D., Regional Archaeologist for the National Park Service

Description: The Western Maryland Chapter of the Archeological Society of Maryland, Inc., will host a presentation by Dr. Potter of his recent research and field investigations that have disclosed evidence of a skirmish between Confederate forces against Union soldiers in the North Woods area during the Battle of Antietam that was overlooked after the bloodiest event of the Civil War. The program is free and open to the public.

Sponsor: The Western Maryland Chapter of the Archeological Society of Maryland, Inc.

Location: LaVale Library, 815 National Highway, LaVale, MD 21502

Time: 7:30 PM

Contact: Roy Brown, 301.724.7769

April 25

Display: Prehistoric Archeology of Dorchester County

Description: Collections of stone weaponry, tools and artifacts and many knowledgeable people will be exhibited at the Robbins Heritage Center in Cambridge. Please feel free to bring any artifacts in for identification and to have any questions answered about them you might have. Most of the artifacts displayed were collected from the shorelines and fields of Dorchester and surrounding counties. The Chesapeake Archaeological Research Foundation's collection will be shown by Darrin Lowery. Charles Clough will be showing the famous Sandy Hill Adena collection as it was once proudly displayed by Native Americans more than two thousand years ago. At least twenty lifetime collections covering more than thirty five tables will be there for your viewing pleasure. You don't want to miss this rare experience. Dave Chapman will also be demonstrating the artful skill of flintknapping arrowheads. Food and refreshments will also be available. Please keep in mind that no artifacts will bought, sold, or traded at this show. This will be a purely educational event.

Sponsor: Dorchester County Historical Society and the South Dorchester Folk Museum.

Location: Robbins Heritage Center, at LaGrange Plantation, Cambridge, MD. http://www.historicdorchester.org

Time: 10:00 AM - 4:00 PM

Contact: Dorchester County Historical Society at 410-228-7953 or Terry Crannell at 410-221-5122.

April 25-26

Fieldwork opportunity: Excavations at the Susquehanna Canal, Cecil County, Maryland

Description: ASNC will continue field investigations at the Susquehanna Canal near Octoraro Creek, Cecil County, Maryland, the site of one of the oldest artificial waterways in the nation. No previous experience is required, although participants must follow standard guidelines. Registration is required. Due to security reasons, no one can be admitted to the site without prior authorization.

Sponsor: ASNC

Location: Car pool spot: Octoraro Creek Trail parking lot, Route 222 north of Port Deposit, Cecil County, Maryland

Fee: Free

Time: 9:00 AM – 4:00 PM

Contact: Ann Persson, 410.272.3425


26-30 April 2008


April 26

Fieldwork opportunity: Excavations at the Susquehanna Canal, Cecil County, Maryland

Description: ASNC will continue field investigations at the Susquehanna Canal near Octoraro Creek, Cecil County, Maryland, the site of one of the oldest artificial waterways in the nation. No previous experience is required, although participants must follow standard guidelines. Registration is required. Due to security reasons, no one can be admitted to the site without prior authorization.

Sponsor: ASNC

Location: Car pool spot: Octoraro Creek Trail parking lot, Route 222 north of Port Deposit, Cecil County, Maryland

Fee: Free

Time: 9:00 AM – 4:00 PM

Contact: Ann Persson, 410.272.3425

April 26

Lecture: Calvert House Excavations 2008.

Discription: Dr. Tim Riordan, HSMC chief archaeologist, will present findings from the 2008 Historic St. Mary’s City Field School excavations of the yardscape around the Calvert House. Learn about the discovery of a possible outbuilding, excavation of a 10-foot segment of the ditch of Poe’s Fort (1645), and what was learned about how the site used.

Sponsor: Historic St. Mary’s City

Location: HSMC Visitor Center auditorium, St. Mary’s City

Time: 3:00 PM

Fee: Free admission

Contact: 1-800-SMC-1634 or 240-895-4990

April 26

Exhibit: Grand opening of the Prehistoric Chesapeake Cultures exhibit

Description: The display of prehistoric materials follows a timeline of native cultures in the region from the Paleoindian period through the late Woodland era. The exhibit is designed to meet state curriculum standards and the Boy Scouts of America’s Indian Lore Merit Badge.

Fee: Free.

Time: 1:00 – 4:00 PM

Sponsor: ASNC and Liriodendron Mansion Location: 502 West Gordon Street, Bel Air, Maryland 21014

Contact: Dan Coates, 410.273.9619,

April 30*

Tour: Maryland Archaeological Conservation Laboratory Tour

Description: The Maryland Archaeological Conservation Lab opens its doors to the public for a free guided tour. This behind-the-scenes look at Maryland’s premier archaeology lab shows visitors how artifacts are studied, conserved, and prepared for permanent storage.

Sponsor: Jefferson Patterson Park & Museum

Location: 10515 Mackall Rd., St. Leonard, MD 20685

Time: 10:00 AM . and 2:00 PM

Contact: Kathy Concannon at 410-586-8562

*Tours of the Lab are available other days by reservation for a small fee.


Post-April Activities


May, 7, 8 and 9

Fieldwork Opportunity: Late Archaic site, Manchester

Description: ASM members and the general public are invited to participate in the excavation, screening and troweling of one-meter and two-meter test squares in the exploration of a prehistoric archeological site which pre-dates ceramic period. To date, a small assemblage of stone tools, likely associated with a small resource procurement camp in the Late Archaic Period, has been recovered. The archeological testing involves the documentation of an open field archeological site located in the town of Manchester in Carroll County, Maryland.

Sponsors: Central Chapter and the Board of Directors for the Manchester Parks Foundation Location: Northern Carroll County

Location: Directions and what to bring to the archeological site will be provided to the individuals who pre-register

Time: 8:00 AM. to 4:30 PM, weather permitting.

Fee: None.

Contact: Stephen Israel (410) 945-5514 or Benton Watson (410) 857-4970.

May 9

Fieldwork Opportunity: Public Dig Day

Description: Plan on attending our 7th annual Public Dig Day at Needwood Mansion Sponsor: The Maryland-National Capital Park and Planning Commission Montgomery County Parks Department, Park Planning and Stewardship in partnership with the Mid-Potomac Chapter of the Archeological

Location: Needwood Mansion, 6700 Needwood Road,Derwood, Maryland 20855

Time: TBD

Fee: Free

Contact: Heather Bouslog at 301-840-5848 or Don Housley at 301-424-8526.

May 12 – July 4

Excavation: Public Archaeology Program

Description: Ever wondered what it would be like to be an archaeologist? This is your opportunity! Join JPPM archaeologists as they excavate an early 1700s site. Help dig and screen for artifacts, or wash and label objects at the Maryland Archaeological Conservation Lab. No experience necessary; children under 15 must be accompanied by an adult.

Sponsor: Jefferson Patterson Park & Museum

Location: 10515 Mackall Rd., St. Leonard, MD 20685

Times: 10:00 AM. - 3:30 PM.

Contact: Ed Chaney at 410-586-8554

May 16

Field Work, Tours: Public Dig Days at Londontown

Description: Come out and learn what archaeology is all about! Join Archaeologists at London Town and help recover artifacts of the 17th-20th centuries!

Sponsor: The Lost Towns Project, Historic London Town and Gardens

Location: Historic London Town and Gardens, 839 London Town Road, Edgewater, MD 21037

Times: 9:00 AM – 2:00 PM

Fee: Free

Contact: Jessie Grow, 410 222 1318

May 27 – August 2

Excavations: 2009 Archaeological Field School at the Leonard Calvert House

Discription: An opportunity to visit the excavations and talk to the field school students and the archaeologist about the most recent discoveries and how they are made.

Sponsor: Historic St. Mary’s City

Location: Town Center area

Time:10:00 AM - 4:00 PM

Fee: Free with museum admission ticket.

Contact: 1-800-SMC-1634 or 240-895-4990

June 20

Event: Celebrate Maryland 375

Discription: Celebrate Maryland's 375th anniversary at the place where it all began! Step onboard a visiting tall ship or take a skipjack ride. Try a make-take activity at a living history site. Try colonial dancing, watch American Indian dancing, and enjoy period entertainment as your relax in a cider/beer/coffee garden. Wrap up your day with a special River Concert at St. Mary's College of Maryland and fireworks.

Sponsor: Historic St. Mary’s City

Location: St. Mary’s City

Time: 10:00 AM.- 5:00 PM. (River Concert and fireworks at 7:00 PM)

Fee: Free admission

Contact: 1-800-SMC-1634 or 240-895-4990

July 25- 26

Excavation: Tidewater Archaeology Weekend

Discription: Experience a hands- on opportunity to be an archaeologist for a day at the site of Maryland’s first capital. Help screen and sift through the dirt to uncover artifacts from Maryland’s past. Special behind the scenes guided tours.

Sponsor: Historic St. Mary’s City

Location: St. Mary’s City

Time: 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.

Fee: $10.00 adult, $8 seniors (60+), $6.00 student (13-18 years or college ID), $3.50 ages 6-12, Child (5 and under) free

Contact: 1-800-SMC-1634 or 240-895-4990

September 8-17

Fieldwork Opportunity: Annual Field Session

Description: Plan on attending our annual Field Session at a site to be determined.

Sponsor: The Maryland-National Capital Park and Planning Commission Montgomery County Parks Department, Park Planning and Stewardship in partnership with the Mid-Potomac Chapter of the Archeological

Location: TBD

Time: TBD

Fee: Free

Contact: Heather Bouslog at 301-840-5848 or Don Housley at 301-424-8526.

September 12, 2009

Field Work, Tours: Public Dig Days at Londontown

Description: Come out and learn what archaeology is all about! Join Archaeologists at London Town and help recover artifacts of the 17th-20th centuries!

Sponsor: The Lost Towns Project, Historic London Town and Gardens

Location: Historic London Town and Gardens, 839 London Town Road, Edgewater, MD 21037

Times: 9:00 AM – 2:00 PM

Fee: Free

Contact: Jessie Grow, 410 222 1318

September 12

Event: Woodland Indian Discovery Day

Discription: Come to Historic St. Mary’s City to witness how American Indians lived. Special hands-on activities including bead making, archery, pottery, and flintknapping alongside demonstrations in cooking, hide preparation. Traditional dancing completes the program.

Sponsor: Historic St. Mary’s City

Location: St. Mary’s City

Time: 10:00 AM - 5:00 PM

Fee: $10.00 adult, $8 seniors (60+), $6.00 student (13-18 years or college ID), $3.50 ages 6-12, Child (5 and under) free Contact: 1-800-SMC-1634 or 240-895-4990

September 27

Event: RiverFest

Discription: Discover some of the many ways to enjoy and protect our waterways. Sponsored by the St. Mary's River Watershed Association.

Sponsor: Historic St. Mary’s City

Location: St. Mary’s City

Time:10:00 AM - 5:00 PM

Fee: Free admission.

Contact: 1-800-SMC-1634 or 240-895-4990

Nov. 27 - 28

Event: Hearth & Home in Early Maryland.

Description: Following the harvest, the colonists made preparations for the long winter. Learn about homely skills in the 17th century by watching demonstrations and trying hands-on activities. Included with museum admission.

Sponsor: Historic St. Mary’s City

Location: St. Mary’s City

Time:10:00 AM - 5:00 PM .

Fee: $10.00 adult, $8 seniors (60+), $6.00 student (13-18 years or college ID), $3.50 ages 6-12, Child (5 and under) free

Contact: 1-800-SMC-1634 or 240-895-4990