Friends of Merrymeeting Bay plans to, in conjunction with the Maine Historic Preservation Commission, conduct a daylong Phase 1 archaeological survey on Saturday, July 20, of a Bowdoinham site along the Kennebec River, across from southern Swan Island. This particular parcel was recently protected in perpetuity by the owners and FOMB via a conservation easement.
The property is of historic value as the site of a likely historic brick kiln, but it also has prehistoric potential on an elongated ridge above the river, according to a news release from Ed Friedman with Friends.
A Phase 1 survey involves the laying out of various transects on the property along which 50 centimeter square test pits at regular intervals will be excavated carefully down to mineral soil, with contents screened for any artifacts. The excavated soil will be replaced when done.
Interested volunteers are sought to assist with this project, to be supervised by Leith Smith and Art Spiess, historic and prehistoric archaeologists respectively, with the Maine Historic Preservation Commission. Volunteers should be physically fit and able to handle digging and screening for the time they are on site. Further details for the day will be supplied to participants.
As usual for FOMB digs, a donation is requested since there are typical expenses associated that often include partial MHPC staff costs and possible carbon dating of artifacts. Suggested donation is $50. If one is not already a FOMB member this will include a one-year membership.
The day is set up with morning and afternoon sessions, and there is room for eight volunteers per session. The morning session runs from 8 a.m. to noon; the afternoon session is set for 12:30-4:30 p.m. Lunch is from noon-12:30 p.m.
For more information, call Friedman at 207-666-3372.