Document Type

Report

Publication Date

12-4-2013

Abstract

The Fort St. Joseph Archaeological Project continued to maintain its high standards in research, teaching, and public outreach in the examination of the fur trade and colonialism in southwest Michigan under the auspices of the Fort St. Joseph Archaeology Advisory Committee. Over the past year (September 1, 2012 through August 31, 2013) Western Michigan University (WMU) students and faculty, along with interested stakeholders and community volunteers, collaborated in both the archaeological investigation of Fort St. Joseph as well as the dissemination of information to an expanding audience. The highlights of the past year include:

  • The newly released DVD, "Militia Muster,” was given the 2013 Golden Aurora Award for excellence in Social Studies-related educational films.
  • Our highly successful blog was updated throughout the academic year and field season. It has reached nearly 25,000 views since its inception in 2011 (http://fortstjosepharchaeology.blogspot.com/).
  • Among the many interesting and unique artifacts uncovered was a hewn beam found in relation to House 2. Further exploration of this building will provide clues to the identity of its occupants.
  • The 2013 summer camps provided a hands-on archaeology experience for 23 participants of all different ages and backgrounds.
  • The 2013 Open House hosted over 1,500 visitors to experience and learn more about daily life, archaeology, and the theme of “Foodways” at the Fort.
  • The fifth annual summer archaeology lecture series was held in cooperation with the Niles District Library and Niles Senior Center and featured prominent speakers who discussed history and archaeology relevant to Fort St. Joseph and the fur trade.
  • John LaMore was named the winner of the third annual Volunteer of the Year Award for his service to the Project.
  • The fourth annual issue of the Fort St. Joseph Post newsletter was distributed.
  • A film crew visited the site to collect footage for a new PBS series titled America: From the Ground Up!
  • Living history members of the Project team participated in the New France Festival in Quebec City, Canada, showcasing frontier life at Fort St. Joseph to hundreds of international visitors.

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