Louisiana - Kisatchie NF
Closed! Analysis from "Kreitzers' Last Stand"
LA-4234
April 6-10, 2015
Must commit to entire session
Last spring, we continued our explorations of Central Louisiana's Prehistory at Site 16WN542. The site is lovingly known as "Kreitzers' Last Stand" now to many of our FS folk and returning participants, so-named for two long-time Kistachie NF volunteers who announced their retirement from PIT in 2014. "Kreitzers' Last Stand" was first discovered in 2004 and, unfortunately, efforts there became something of an emergency operation to record and stabilize the site due to some past..."unauthorized excavations"...and resultant natural deflation that had begun atop the ridge. One hundred sixty-one artifacts were recovered, including stone tools and tool-making debris and decorated and plain pottery sherds. Additional site testing was performed in 2012 to address the potential artifact density across the full site, and our testing in the spring of 2014 allowed us a closer and larger look at the site and its complexities. We were not disappointed either year: we unearthed a great deal more cultural objects! During both previous PIT projects our wonderful volunteers and staff working in the on-site field laboratory were able to wash and sort all of these artifacts, and this year is the perfect time to analyze them!
So, once again, we are putting out the call for assistance from the PIT community! We will analyze, catalog, and record the collections, and get them ready for long-term storage, perhaps even display! Volunteers will get first-hand experience in archaeological analysis, curation prep, and cataloguing, and will have the opportunity to see some of Louisiana's unearthed cultural gems first-hand, and get to tell some great stories. Obviously, our work this spring will aid us in updating the archaeological record for this unique site, but you may just come away with some new skills (or may hone ones you already have) in the process. There is also a great deal to see and do in the surrounding area in those hours "off the clock," including viewing some historic sites, visiting museums and, of course, Louisiana is, after all, "The Sportsman's Paradise!" So, join us for the work and learning, stay for the fun! See you in April!
Number of openings: 15
Special skills: Patience, perseverance, and practicality a must; previous artifact identification, analysis, and/or general archaeological lab experience helpful, but not required
Minimum age: 18 years old
Facilities: Developed tent and small RV (pop-up/trailer) camping at no charge at Gum Springs; water, restrooms, some hook-ups (limited availability and subject to fees); Winnfield is a full-service community with motels, restaurants, and a range of other amenities; volunteers responsible for own lodging/personal camping equipment, food, and transportation
Nearest town: Winnfield, 8 miles; Clarence, 8 miles
Applications due: February 23, 2015