Have Trowel, Will Dig

 Yesterday I went on my first socially distant dig. It was sponsored by the SSAAM (Stoutsland Sourlands African American Museum) and ASNJ (Archaeology Society of New Jersey). The call went out on Facebook for sixteen people to dig -- four each in 45 minute sessions. Many of my local Facebook friends tagged me to do it (love that so many people know this is something I would enjoy). I didn't hear back from them for the first date they were going to do it. Thanks to a rainy forecast, it was pushed back a week. This time I did hear back from them. 

Then I did! I was slated for the first session (9:30-10:15). I was pleased to see Christine had the same time slot as I did, and Stacy had the next one. There were a long list of rules (everyone must come separately, even though parking was limited) and safety forms to fill out (remember it was only a 45-minute slot). Still, I applaud them trying.

When I arrived (late as usual) everyone was busy digging. I found Mike and Josh, archaeologists I have met on past historic digs. They are both so patient teaching people the basics of archaeology. I was teamed up with Christine. She worked the sifter while I learned how to take notes (I felt as if it was a promotion!). 

Each family unit was assigned a hole -- basically an 18-inch round section far away from others. We went down a couple of feet (into 2 different strata). As we hit the marshy soil beneath the clay soil, it was time to close up the hole and let the next group start fresh. I shared with Christine because at least we know each other, and our girls all stayed home.

The goal was to explore the area behind the former church before a ramp is installed. I suspect they'll find chicken bones left over from past church pot luck dinners, not from raising chickens. That's the fun part of archaeology -- interpreting the data.

We didn't find anything. Another group found a lock and some nails (some modern, some historic). After 45 minutes the next crew came and we left. I hope they share what they found. I feel the good stuff is usually found just as the sand is sifting out of the proverbial hourglass. 

Another group's finds

I hope Josh really does let me know the next time they need help on a dig. The more of these small digs I do, the more I feel as if I am learning. They are always fun because afterwards I can go home and sleep in my own bed.