The Archaeology of
Newcastle , Maine
Session #1: July 13-18
Session #2: July 20-25
Session #3: July 27-Aug 1
Archaeologist Tim Dinsmore will direct his final year of research on the 18th-century Bryant-Barker Tavern site located along the west bank of the Damariscotta River in Newcastle. During the past ten years, field school participants have helped search for the tavern site by excavating test units across two properties overlooking the Damariscotta. In 2001 the exact location of the tavern site was discovered and with it a profusion of artifacts dating to the period. The objective for the 2008 field season will be to continue defining the outer walls to the structure and perhaps locate the elusive chimney base and hearth. Excavation will also be conducted in the tavern cellar, parts of which have been previously excavated and have revealed insights into the material culture of the time. The site, once home to shipwright Nathaniel Bryant and family, also served as a public tavern that was, “much resorted to by travelers.” The site is significant in that it – along with the Hale site or George Barstow homestead site – mark the birthplace of the shipbuilding industry along the upper Damariscotta — an industry that flourished well into the 19th-century. The continued and final excavation of the site will afford a detailed glimpse into the everyday lives of 18th-century shipwrights and their families. Participants will learn about the fundamental principles and rigors of archaeological research while helping contribute to this important project. Space is limited so sign up early.
2008 DRA Archaeology Field School
Please indicate below what session or sessions you want to participate in:
I would like to participate in Session #1, July 13-18, 2008 ____($300)*
I would like to participate in Session #2, July 20-25, 2008 ____($300)*
I would like to participate in Session #3, July 27-Aug 1, 2008 ____($300)*
Special Rate for any two sessions ..........................................____($525)*
* A non-refundable $100 deposit is required with registration to reserve your space
Name________________________________________Date_______________________
Street Address____________________________________________________________
City, State, Zip____________________________________________________________
Phone Number_________________________E-Mail_____________________________
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Send registration form to: Damariscotta River Association, P.O. Box 333, Damariscotta, ME 04543. Contact DRA with any questions: 207-563-1393 or DRA@DRACLT.ORG
Scholarships: Thanks to the fund established in memory of Helen Bassett Gurland by her sister Linda B. Johnson, the DRA is able to offer two scholarships of $200 each to support a local teacher and a student interested in attending the field school. Helen was an enthusiastic participant in our field school and her spirit, enthusiasm, and friendship lives on by making it possible to enjoy the excitement of an archeology dig. If you are interested in applying, submit a letter no later than June 1st addressed to: Mark DesMeules, Executive Director, Damariscotta River Association, P.O. Box 333, Damariscotta, ME 04543. In your letter, explain why you are interested in attending the field school and why you feel the experience will benefit you in your pursuit of academic interests. Decisions will be made by June 20th, 2008. You will be notified by phone and in writing.