2011 Sessions

Session #1: Introduction: Sunday, July 10th
Field Work: July 11-15

Session #2: Introduction: Sunday, July 17th
Field Work: July 18 - 22

In Search of the Elusive John Brown Farmstead Site (ca. 1660-1676) Damariscotta, Maine ...

Archaeologist Tim Dinsmore will direct this year’s archaeological field school in search of the 17th century John Brown Jr. Farmstead site situated somewhere along Water Street in Damariscotta, Maine.

John Brown was the son of John Brown of New Harbor who purportedly purchased much of the Bristol Peninsula for fifty beaver skins in 1625—land that included present-day Damariscotta from the Wabanaki Samoset. This “deed” is believed to be a colonial forgery but nonetheless lands were settled based upon the document.

The objective of this year’s archaeological field school is to have participants excavate test pits across residential properties in Damariscotta in hopes of locating vestiges of the John Brown Jr. Farmstead site. Furthermore, subsurface explorations may encounter features associated with a 19th century shipyard.

Field school participants will also have the opportunity to participate in a ground penetrating radar survey employed across the properties by University of Maine professor Dr. Daniel Belknap. Participants will learn about the fundamental principles and rigors of archaeological research while helping contribute to this important project. Space is limited so sign up early.

  Download the registration form in pdf format, and mail it back to the DRA Office. Please note that a deposit is required with your registration in order to reserve your space. If you are unable to download or print the form, please call the DRA office at (207) 563-1393.

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