Monday, July 16, 2012

A Hot Monday at FSJ


By Scott MacPherson
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July 16, 2012
Scott cleaning up his pit
Jordan thinks he found something special!
The first day of our second week began today, as well as the melting of the polar caps. Another hot day here in Niles, but for those of us working on the archaeological site at Fort St. Joseph it couldn’t have been cooler. We arrived this morning to the realization that it had rained in at least one location in Michigan; some of us had water in our pits. It was no big deal and actually turned out to be helpful. After a much needed weekend of rest a few of us realized that we had contracted poison ivy, some much worse than others. Archaeology is not for the faint of heart that is for sure and a rabid case of poison ivy is a small price to pay.
Aside from the oozing lesions and scalding heat, Monday got off as planned and before noon, we were already discovering cultural artifacts. We found a piece of lead shot, flakes from the production of stone tools, wire nails, fire cracked rock and  a couple more pieces of low-fired earthenware produced by Native-Americans. Today was a great way to start the week with the discoveries we have made thus far and we are eager to get out there again in the morning.
Dr. Nassaney talking with our host Stephanie Layman
This morning we all reflected on the previous week and several of us made comments about our thoughts over the weekend and one of the topics that kept coming up among us was how touched we all are by the way the community of Niles, Michigan has welcomed us to their town. The level of genuine kindness and enthusiasm is profound for what we are doing here at the fort site. The community of Niles has reason to be proud of their local history and heritage and they do not hesitate to show that pride. All of us archaeology students from Western Michigan University and beyond appreciate your kindness and hospitality.
Poison Ivy


                                                                                                                                  Thank You!

3 comments:

Unknown said...

I wish I could have been there! Oh well, Wednesday! Sue

Unknown said...

I'm jealous, I wish I could have been there, I should have left my poison ivy stuff there. Great job today everybody, I'll see you on Wednesday! Sue

Unknown said...

Sounds like you had a great day! I should have left my poison ivy stuff there, I'll bring it back on Wednesday. Wish I could have been there. Sue