FIELD SCHOOL IN HISTORICAL ARCHAEOLOGY

        Historic St. Mary's City (HSMC) is pleased to announce its 1999 field school in historical archaeology which will run from 9 June - 15 August.    HSMC is a state-supported, outdoor museum located at the site of Maryland's first capital.   The focus of this summer's research is a portion of Smith's Town Land,  a three acre tract granted to William Smith in 1666.   The site under investigation is the location of John Morecroft's house and store.  Later, the site was probably used by William Nuthead, the first printer of Maryland.  During the 19th century, two slave cabins were built on the property.   Preliminary testing has revealed the presence of stratified deposits associated with both the 17th and 19th centuries.   The goal of this summer's work is to identify the location of 17th-century structures on the site.

        For the student, the program will be an intensive experience in Colonial archaeology.  The first week of the class is devoted to lectures on history, archaeological methods and material culture studies.  Students will learn artifact identification by working with one of the best archaeological collections of Colonial material in the country.  During the following nine weeks, students participate in the excavation, recording and analysis of sites in an internationally famous archaeological district.  Guest lecturers will speak on the history and  architecture of the Chesapeake region.  Field trips to nearby archaeological sites in Maryland and Virginia are planned.   Students will also have the rare opportunity to help sail the MARYLAND DOVE, a replica of a 17th-century, square-rigged tobacco ship.

        The course is designed for students in American Studies, Anthropology, Archaeology, History and Museum Studies.  Prior coursework is preferred but not required.  The ability to engage in active physical labor is essential.  A total of eight (8) credit hours are offered through St. Mary's College of Maryland, an honors college dedicated to the Liberal Arts.  Credit is transferable to other institutions.  The program costs $840 which covers tuition.  There is a $55 fee to cover the cost of the major field trips.  A limited amount of housing is available.  Transportation, food and entertainment are the responsibility of the student.

        HSMC is located two hours south of Washington, D.C. in Southern Maryland.  Although rural, Southern Maryland is within easy driving distance of major urban areas for entertainment and sightseeing.

        To apply send a letter stating your interest in the course, prior classes, special skills, and the names of two academic references.  Please include a phone number both at school and where you can be reached after the semester is over.  For specific questions about the course, call (301) 862-0974 or email [log in to unmask]  Send Applications to:

       Archaeology Program
       Department of Research, HSMC
       P. O. Box 39
       St. Mary's City,  Maryland 20686