Having done "underhouse" archaeology a number of times, I have
several recommendations.  Dust masks and adequate ventilation via fans or
whatever are an absolute must!  Good ventilation is followed by the best
lighting money can buy--even so you also seem to be working in a shadow.
Have fun--preservation of unusual materials is frequently superb!
Dedie Snow

-----Original Message-----
From: Daniel H. Weiskotten [mailto:[log in to unmask]]
Sent: Thursday, April 29, 2004 8:16 PM
To: [log in to unmask]
Subject: Underhouse Archaeology


A few days ago I had the pleasure to visit Charles Pinckney National
Historic Site at Snee Farm northeast of Charleston, SC.  I was impressed at
the use of archaeology to tell the story of the plantation during
Pinckney's time, a necessity because none of Pinckney's buildings remain.

http://www.cr.nps.gov/seac/chpi/index.htm

I was quite interested in the "underhouse" excavations as I have one site
that lies under an existing building and I have another building that has
been tested all around, but not under (although a mass of late 18th century
wine bottle fragments were found in the 1980s while enlarging the stairs to
the 20th century furnace room).

What guidelines, techniques, clothing, dust masks, health issues, words of
wisdom, etc., do listers have to share?

I am well aware of black widows!

        Dan W.