The winter session of the San Diego Presidio Archaeological Project has
forged on despite what could only be described as complete and utterly
unfortunate weather. San Diego has been hit by almost three times the normal
rainfall to date. Although unable to work in the field, we have been able to
do some extra training in the lab. When conditions permitted, wet screening
was the only reasonable screening method. This gave the NCCC corps members an
introduction to alternative screening methods.
     Most of the fieldwork we were able to do centered around preparing the
site for even greater access to physically challenged visitors and more up
close opportunities for school groups. The elevated walkway along the North
wall is almost complete, and should be ready to accomodate visitors early next
week. In addition, the fence perimeter has been increased to provide greater
security for the site.
     Of note is the discovery of a new feature in Building 2, Room 9. The
feature is an anomalous ladrillo layer (perhaps a floor) which rests twelve
inches higher that the average floor level. It is uncertain how large the
feature is as we have only excavated one unit down to Strata 2. Additional
excavation will be required before any conclusions can be drawn.
   The educational aspect of the Presidio Project has continued in the
classrooms of San Diego's Old Town Historical Project [this is where the NCCC
corpsmembers teach the schoolchildren about the site]. The corpsmembers have
throughly enjoyed their opportunity to visit the school and interpret the
archaeological findings for the children. A handbook to guide in the training
of corps members for the interpretative project has been developed by one of
the current Assistant Field Directors, which is a team made up of four
corpsmembers selected to continue their work with the project.
 
Anita Cohen-Williams; Reference Services; Hayden Library
Arizona State University, Tempe, AZ  85287-1006
PHONE: (602) 965-4579              FAX: (602) 965-9169
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