LCHA Archaeology Volunteer Program

The Lincoln County Historical Association is implementing a new volunteer program for the archaeology department. Lincoln County is a rich and diverse area to study for past human occupation. This program will include activities such as lab night, fieldwork, and research opportunities. Archaeology involves a great deal of planning and patience, so there are many opportunities for public involvement.

The organization has several ongoing projects that are the focus for the current research. The first archaeology camps were held this past summer, and there is a need for volunteers to work on artifact processing for the Ramsour’s Mill Battlefield and Historic Woodside. In addition, upcoming projects include a Native American Mississippian site, and three other possible historic sites in eastern Lincoln County. The activities planned for the upcoming year are going to allow for field-walking exercises, digging and testing, recording techniques, artifact washing and identification training, and further extended research.

The program will to start with an ongoing “lab night” session once a week from 6:30 to 8:00 pm in the evening, with the specific day to be decided. Other activities are available in the lab throughout the week during daytime hours, and fieldwork is something typically performed on the weekends.

All activities are available to ages 12 and up. The organization is accepting feedback in regard to interest in this specific program. Interested persons should contact the LCHA located at the Lincoln County Cultural Center, in downtown Lincolnton, NC. The volunteer program is starting in the coming year, so contact the LCHA about specific interests. Please contact January W. Porter at (704) 748-9090 or jporter33@carolina.rr.com.