Photography by Vanessa Smith

Led by Dr. Jonathan Fowler, the historical archaeology field school at Saint Mary’s University has been investigating the pre-Deportation Acadian landscapes around Grand-Pré since 2001.

Recently, the research focus has widened to include early colonial sites in the Shubenacadie River Valley. The field school experience brings students out of the classroom and offers a chance to experience archaeology hands-on. Students acquire the practical skills of archaeological reconnaissance, excavation, recording and interpretation, and learn to identify artifacts as they are uncovered.

Beyond digging, they also have opportunities to use an array of geophysical survey equipment, including magnetic sensing and radar equipment, high-powered GPS devices, and other non-invasive survey techniques. The subject matter may be centuries old, but these are leading edge methods. Follow the ongoing research via: www.facebook.com/archaeologyacadie/

A beautiful day for some archaeology. Dr. Jonathan Fowler, the 2018 field school team, and interested community members reviewing ongoing work at Grand Pré.

An important step in the excavation process – students screening for artifacts.

Fine tuning a shovel test on the Shubenacadie River.

An array of artifacts, including various types of ceramics, clay pipe stems, and bottle glass.

Back in the SMU Archaeology lab, students begin the process of cleaning and processing the artifacts found in the field.