| Ruffner Archaeological Dig |
| Freshmen Seminar
students join seasoned anthropology majors in digging up the dirt on either
side of previous walkways to the Rotunda. Students mark the area into 40 by 4 foot trenches then begin the meticulous process of "lifting" four inches of soil, carrying it to screens and sifting for artifacts. Archeology Field School Director Dr. Brian Bates and Professor of Anthropology Dr. Jim Jordan supervise the process. The "first lift" uncovered square nails and other artifacts related to the building. The "second lift"--the next four inches of soil--yielded personal artifacts including a gold brooch (see photo below) and a silver thimble (see photo below). The dig will conclude Oct. 6, the Saturday of Oktoberfest. More than 500 student hours will have gone into the site. Plans for the artifacts include a presentation in February during a Longwood alumni event at the Virginia Museum of Fine Arts. |
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