The Damariscotta River Association (DRA) announced that its 2014 Archaeology Field School has a few remaining openings for the week of July 13. This year the school’s work will focus on the Elisha Hatch Homestead site located off River Road in Newcastle. The site marks the third and final leg of historical archaeologist Tim Dinsmore's investigation into the 18th century Barstow-Bryant shipbuilding complex. Dinsmore will direct field school participants in the partial excavation of the Hatch Homestead site with the goal of defining the structural layout of the site. 

Participants will have the opportunity to excavate an area believed to be the location of Hatch's blacksmith shop. This is a rare opportunity for field school participants to help excavate a site associated with the first years of the shipbuilding industry along the Damariscotta — an industry that flourished throughout much of the 19th century. The site is virtually untouched since the 18th century, and the excavation will afford a detailed glimpse into the daily lives of 18th century shipwrights and blacksmiths. Artifacts of both a domestic and industrial nature, notably blacksmithing and shipbuilding, are anticipated.

Participants will learn basic field methodology skills by helping excavate sections of this important site. By joining the field school they will help contribute to an important chapter in the maritime history of the Damariscotta River region, while learning the rigors and fundamental principles of archaeology in Midcoast Maine. 

The minimum age to attend is 14 and past field school sessions have included high school age students, college students and retirees who have always wanted to participate in a professional archaeological dig. Experience among participants in past years has ranged from first timers to seasoned excavators to up and coming archaeologists. 

Field School Session costs are $350 for one week. A discount of $25 per week is offered to DRA members. Partial scholarships are available to teachers and students through the "Helen Gurland Scholarship Fund." Note that room and board are not included. For additional information on the field school and to download a registration form visit damariscottariver.org/Archaeology.html or contact the DRA at 207-563-1393, dra@damariscottariver.org.  

For more information, call 207-563-1393, email dra@damariscottariver.org, or go to www.damariscottariver.org.