Carl,

At least here in Kansas, they were still shipping fresh oysters in barrels
by rail up to the turnof the 20th century. Because they travelled so well,
they were a staple for the miiitary outposts. A few years ago, while
excavating a new storm sewer line behind the 19th century station agent's
quarters site, we uncovered a very large oyster shell midden. We know that
that site was in use through 1909. You might want to look for a similar
phenomenon.

John Dendy
Archeologist
Dynamac Corporation
Fort Riley, Kansas

-----Original Message-----
From: Carl Barna [mailto:[log in to unmask]]
Sent: Wednesday, April 02, 2003 9:51 AM
To: [log in to unmask]
Subject: Re: oyster canz


Howdy --

Were there cans for oysters that are unique to the product and easily
recognizable at 19th century mining camp archaeological sites?

Perhaps someone could post pictures of such cans?

Carl Barna
Regional Historian
BLM Colorado State Office