Public Archaeology in April at the Historic Alston-Cobb House!

In 2002 the Center for Archaeological Studies at the University of South Alabama partnered with the Clarke County Museum in Grove Hill, Alabama, to conduct archaeological investigations on the grounds of the museum. The public was invited to get dirty as we dug into the past of the Historic Alston-Cobb House, which was built circa 1854 and currently serves as the county museum. For those that didn't want to get dirty, there was the opportunity to come out and learn more about archaeology through a slide presentation and guided tours of the excavations.

WEEK 1

WEEK 2

WEEK 3

SCHOOL TOURS

LAB WORK

Volunteers and anyone interested in archaeology viewed a short slide presentation in the morning or afternoon. Volunteers could then work with professional archaeologists in unit excavation for the rest of the day. Volunteers learned proper excavation techniques, how to record information, and to help screen for artifacts. Additionally, volunteers helped shovel test at the possible location of Fort Reviere. Shovel tests were used to establish site boundaries and the distribution of artifacts, which will allow for more precise archaeological investigations to be conducted in the future.

The Clarke County Museum is located just off of U.S. Highways 43 and 84 West in downtown Grove Hill at 116 Cobb Street. Excavations were conducted the first three Saturdays in April.