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Drew UNiversity: Archaeological field study in maine |
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Description |
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This summer, Drew University’s Department of Anthropology is pleased to offer an opportunity for students to participate in archaeological field study on the coast of Maine. Students will learn firsthand the process of archaeological research through the direct involvement in the survey and excavation of a Middle Archaic (8000-6000 years old) site, as well as the conservation and care of all recovered artifacts. |
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Data Points When : July 19– August 9, 2008
Where: Surry, Maine
Who: Dr. Benjamin Carter, Project Director
Academic Credit: 4 Cost: $2400 (Includes tuition and room and board)
Applications due by April 15, 2008
Color Flyer (pdf) |
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The chance to research the Middle Archaic of Maine is unique; Site 43.103 is one of the few sites dating to this time period in the state. We know very little about this time period, yet the Middle Archaic is considered an important period for many of the subsequent cultural developments. Most significantly, the Middle Archaic people utilized ground stone tools that were both technologically complex and time consuming to make. Why did they make these tools when ‘easier’ options were available? |
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For what purposes (functional, spiritual, etc...) were they used? Tools discovered from this site were buried in soil stained red by the mineral ochre. Is this the origin of the well-known Late Archaic “Red Paint People” (6000-3000 years ago) who buried their dead with similar tools and this red ‘paint’? What was their life like? What did they eat? Where did they live? This is an exceptional chance to be part of ground-breaking research on a little-known group of people. This project will blend archaeological research with a firsthand awareness of the environment in which pre-Columbian people lived. To this end, we will begin the field school by collecting clams in the Maine mudflats and preparing them for an old-fashion clambake. Other possible activities include hiking mountains and exploring the varied coast. Students will be living and working in one of the most picturesque places in the country. What better place to spend your summer than the coast of Maine? |