TX-3967
February 22-26; February 27-March 5, 2011 (including weekends)
Must commit to one full session; may participate in both
The Central Coal and Coke Company ("4-C") Mill was in use from 1902-1920. It is said that, in its prime, it was the largest sawmill west of the Mississippi River. Today, what remains of the mill is within the confines of the beautiful Ratcliff Lake Recreation Area. Remnants of the logging mill and town site are still visible, though some remain undocumented, and there is evidence of later structures from the CCC (Civilian Conservation Corps) era (ca. 1930s). PIT volunteers and Forest Service staff will excavate a large block of the recreation area at Loblolly Loop, which is believed to have been a major habitation site during the 4-C Mill's heyday. As a second component of this PIT project, we will continue the survey, site and feature recording, mapping, and shovel testing we began in 2010. Our goal is to completely define the depth and extent of cultural deposits at this important site, and with your help, we can rapidly locate and document any structures and objects that remain hidden.
We will kick off the morning of Tuesday, February 22, with an orientation to the project area, its background, and our goals. The preceding Monday, February 21 (President's Day) will be a travel and "meet-n-greet" day. If you get in early, be sure to take in the sights! The Ratcliff Lake Recreation Area offers camping, hiking, fishing, and a number of other enjoyable and relaxing escapes. It is a wonderful place to visit, so join us in February and take advantage of what the area has to offer!
Number of openings: 30 (15 per session)
Special skills: Previous archaeological survey, recording, or mapping experience helpful, but not required
Minimum age:10 years old, under 18 with a responsible adult
Facilities: Developed camping available at Ratcliff Lake Recreation Area; water, bathhouse/showers, swimming beach, and other amenities; some RV hook-ups available; Crockett and Lufkin are full service communities with hotels/motels, restaurants, and a full range of other amenities; minimal services in Kennard and Ratcliff; volunteers responsible for own camping equipment, food, and transportation if staying outside of Ratcliff camping area
Nearest towns: Project based in Ratcliff; Kennard, 3 miles; Crockett, 20 miles; Lufkin, 30 miles
Applications due: December 20, 2010