George S. Lewis, a very active member of the Augusta Archaeological Society and the Society for Georgia Archaeology, wrote a history of the AAS in July 1989. Titled “A Brief History of the Augusta Archaeological Society,” this document is now available in PDF form.

In the process of assembling this history of the AAS, then about twenty years old, George also records some of the history of archaeological research of all kinds in the Augusta area.

The seven appendices provide a wealth of useful information, from membership lists to the program for the SGA’s fall meeting in 1976, and more.

Click here to examine this PDF of the history of the AAS, thoughtfully provided to thesga.org by Jerald Ledbetter.

How about some good news in the midst of the nation’s “economic downturn”: membership in the Society for Georgia Archaeology is holding steady. This news confirms that SGA enjoys a loyal and committed following and, certainly, the organization would be nowhere without it. I thank each of you for your ongoing support.

Now, I challenge our members to bring at least one new member to SGA over the coming two months. It would be just that easy to double our support and introduce hundreds of people to the wonders of Georgia archaeology by the end of January. And think about young people especially; surely each of us knows a middle or high school student with an interest in what we do. How to accomplish that? Well, good old-fashioned cajoling is one way, but consider an SGA membership as a holiday gift—perhaps a stocking stuffer.

The SGA board is constantly working to serve the membership better and one perennial goal is efficient use of precious resources, including your membership dues. Toward this end, we are transitioning to electronic formats for our newsletter, The Profile, and developing our web site as a one-stop resource for all things archaeology—at least in Georgia. Doing so streamlines our production process and reduces printing and mailing costs to virtually zero. The savings we earn by this change will afford us more funds for use on other initiatives, including some new ones. All changes take some adjustment and we ask your patience through these transitions, as well as your feedback on this important change in our means of communicating as an organization (see more discussion of this issue below).

Speaking of the web site, I encourage you to submit content to our web master for posting. News items are always of interest, but we’re looking for other, regular contributions, too. For example, we want to make sure each of our chapters is well represented with current information, including meeting dates and programs. Also, we would like submissions of mini-research reports and photo galleries, including from consulting firms. Obviously, a great deal of archaeology is going on around the state and we want to be sure that it gains the visibility it deserves.

And on the subject of chapters, I’m very pleased to report that Jack Wynn, working with Catherine Long, has worked to reinvigorate our mountain-area members to form a new chapter and an affiliated student organization at North Georgia College. Kudos to those folks for ensuring that the all-important hill-country is still an active area.

Finally, I will tempt you with promise of a unique and exciting Archaeology Month program in May, 2010. At our fall board meeting we resolved to introduce a wholly new topic that is sure to captivate many. Tammy Herron, Catherine Long, Pam Baughman and Brian Floyd, among others, will likely be asking for help and participation. The theme for 2010: Making the Past Come to Life! Exploring Ancient Techniques. The program will feature outdoor demonstrations of so-called primitive technologies, ranging from flintknapping to ceramics to…who knows, enhanced by commentary from archaeologists. The likely date will be May 15th and the likely location will be near Albany, so stay tuned for more information—it’ll be a good and educational time.

Yours in Georgia Archaeology,

Dennis Blanton

Two issues loom large in the future of The Profile, and both of them require input from the SGA membership. The first pertains to the publication format for the newsletter and/or its contents. As you all know, the SGA Board recently decided to switch to an electronic, web-based publication format in an effort to cut costs and gain some flexibility with regard to the length and content of the publication. The costs of mailing The Profile had increased, and it was decided that accessing the newsletter electronically would be convenient for most of the membership, and allow more of the SGA’s resources to be devoted to activities that we all support. As additional feedback on this decision has been received, there has been further discussion about the printed versus electronic format question, and whether an electronic publication simply duplicates content that could otherwise be posted to the website in various subject areas. The SGA Board seeks your opinion on these matters. First, what are your thoughts on the question of a printed versus electronically published newsletter. If you are comfortable with the idea of an electronically published version but have suggestions now that you have seen how the first issue (Summer 2009) was presented versus the format of the current issue, your feedback is welcome. Finally, if SGA is to use its website as the platform for disseminating information about its happenings and archaeology in Georgia generally, do you believe there is still a place for The Profile as a coherent publication, or do you think it makes sense to simply offer the content that otherwise would have been in The Profile in various parts of the website where relevant? Please contact President Dennis Blanton with your thoughts and recommendations.

The second issue concerning The Profile pertains to me, your editor. Although it has been a pleasure editing, assembling, and printing The Profile over the last three years, I am ready to step down and give someone else the opportunity to immerse themselves in the current affairs of Georgia archaeology. If you are interested in stepping into this role or know someone you think would be a good candidate, please contact me. I will be continuing as editor until SGA finds my replacement and I will provide all needed support in the transition. I look forward to seeing the fresh perspective the new editor will bring!

Don’t have a clue about what to get Great Aunt Mildred? Still haven’t gotten that holiday gift for those out-of-town friends? Does Cousin Bert have enough ties to choke on? Why not give the perfect gift??

It doesn’t take up any valuable space. It’s always the correct size. It comes with free shipping. It’s never the wrong color. It doesn’t contain a single calorie. It is a most far-reaching, astute, and visionary gift.

This perfect gift honors the recipient in a way no other present can. It is the gift of a contribution in the recipient’s name to the Endowment Fund of The Society for Georgia Archaeology. This gift never wears out, as it can never be spent. This gift keeps on giving year after year, as the interest generated by it is used on public archaeology education outreach projects. This gift is truly remarkable for it speaks in terms of forever; of touching future generations; of selflessness on part of the giver and receiver. Why not give the perfect gift this year? Recipients honored by such a contribution this holiday season will receive a personalized gift card announcing that a gift has been made in their honor, along with the name of the giver.

A recent gift to the Endowment Fund was made by Elizabeth Allen, with a contribution in memory of Sara White. Past contributors from December 2008 through November 2009 include Mary Frank and Jack Wynn, Charlotte (Sammy) Smith and John Burns, Carole Griffith, Tammy Herron, the Chattahoochee Archaeological Preservation Society, Stanley McAfee, III with a gift in honor of Corley Thomas as well as a separate contribution. We thank each of you and appreciate your support and the contributions of all our previous supporters. Thanks to your generosity, the Endowment now stands at $22,769.

Additional checks to reach the SGA goal of $100,000 should be marked “SGA Endowment” and mailed to: SGA Treasurer, P.O. Box 693, Athens, GA 30603. (If the contribution is a gift or in honor of someone, please include the honoree’s name and complete address with your contribution check.) Thank you! May you be surrounded by true gifts this holiday season. For more Endowment Fund information please contact Rita Elliott via email or call her at 912.826.5214.

The theme for Archaeology Month 2010 will focus on Primitive Technology, and the committee is very close to deciding on a catchy title for use on the poster and other promotional literature for this celebration. Plans for the Spring 2010 meeting are underway with a unique twist in store for you!

Rather than organizing lecture presentations, we have opted to invite modern-day craftsmen who practice olden-day techniques, such as flintknappers, potters, basket makers, and weavers, to bring the ways of the past to life. We are hoping to pair each exhibiter with an archaeologist who will discuss how the technology depicted relates back to the field of archaeology. A tour to a local archaeological site is in the works as well.

Committee members are busy working to nail down a time and place for the event in the southwestern corner of the state near Albany. This area is rich in history but lacks an SGA chapter. Perhaps by holding our Spring meeting in this region, we can drum up interest and encourage the organization of a new chapter!

Please check this website and the next issue of The Profile for updates regarding the Spring meeting.

The SGA Fall Meeting was held at the Gwinnett Environmental & Heritage Center on Saturday, October 17th in Buford, Georgia. A great panel of presenters enlightened avocational and professional archaeologists on their latest work. Topics included the Atlanta Campaign of the Civil War, Georgia stoneware, Mississippian period settlement, the battle of Autosee and its historical image, the Asbury Manual Training School for the Creek, historic cemeteries in Georgia, and investigating ceramics on a southern plantation.

Georgia State University students brought poster presentations from their field work with Dennis Blanton over the summer in South Georgia.

The Business Meeting included updates from the Board Meeting held the day before. The biggest announcement is the need for a new Secretary to serve on the Society for Georgia Archaeology Board; we also need to identify a new editor for The Profile. Please submit your suggestions to the President. An important decision regarding future publication format for The Profile must be made; we need to decide if it should continue in its current form—published exclusively in an electronic form available on the website—if it should revert to a printed and mailed publication, or if its content can be absorbed into website updates in lieu of a newsletter document. The Board is seeking your input on this decision; please contact SGA’s President Dennis Blanton to provide your recommendation.

Check back on the website as plans are rapidly progressing for Archaeology Month and the Spring Meeting scheduled for May 2010! We hope to see you there.

The SGA Fall Meeting was held at the Gwinnett Environmental & Heritage Center on Saturday, October 17th in Buford, with a great panel of presentations. During the Business Meeting, members learned the SGA is seeking volunteers for two important positions: Society Secretary and Editor of The Profile. Please read the full story and let President Dennis Blanton know your thoughts regarding The Profile publication—web only versus a “dead-tree” version.

Abby, the ArchaeoBus, has had a busy summer and fall. Summer found Abby enjoying the Athens library scene, where she shared more than archaeology books with library patrons. Tom Gresham delivered informal programs as he brought Abby to the Athens Regional Library and the Oglethorpe County Library. ArchaeoBus Outreach Specialist Kathy Mulchrone ably assisted Tom in the latter program. Kathy, ArchaeoBus Outreach Specialist Teresa Groover, and Rita Elliott prototyped the formal program at the Athens Regional Library. This allowed them to consider changes and improvements to the program content and delivery methods. Thanks to Kathy and Teresa, and to Tom for his ongoing efforts on this project. We also appreciate the Athens Regional Library’s continued support of the ArchaeoBus and the interest of the Oglethorpe County Library and many others throughout Georgia.

Figure 1. Throngs visit the ArchaeoBus.

By October Abby was ready for a visit to Georgia’s coast. She made her debut in Brunswick at the 11th Annual CoastFest, sponsored by the Georgia Department of Natural Resources. Abby played to standing room only crowds as she sat adjacent to The Society for Georgia Archaeology booth (Figure 1). Both the bus interior and SGA’s outside interactives under the tent fostered a large and heartwarming display of intergenerational learning between children, parents, and grandparents, and between scouts and their leaders (Figure 2). Abby was available for 7,500 visitors at CoastFest.

Figure 2. Abby appealing across generations.

Abby is back in school now under the firm hand of Ellen Provenzano in Glynn County, Georgia. Since mid-October Ellen has taken Abby to two schools. This includes Sterling Elementary School, where 115 4th graders and 8 teachers participated in informal programming, and Altama Elementary School, where 86 4th graders, 7 teachers, and 2 administrators interacted with Abby. Ellen has also brought Abby to Fort Frederica National Monument for several hours of programs reaching 34 visitors of all ages, and to the Golden Isles Archaeology Club with an attendance of 15 adults. Ellen is making Abby do extracurricular work, and has her scheduled to visit an additional three to four schools in Glynn County before the end of the year. At that time, Ellen and Rita will do a final prototyping of the formal program for middle school students using the new materials and content created from the first prototyping session in Athens. A big thank you to Ellen, who has already reached 267 students with Abby and will likely engage another 300 in the next few weeks!

Abby’s increasing success would be impossible without the help of several dedicated individuals. A huge thanks to volunteers Tom Gresham and Ellen Provenzano. The phrase “working tirelessly” does not even begin to sum up their endeavors. Appreciation also goes to Kathy Mulchrone and Teresa Groover for their work. The ArchaeoBus Committee continues to stand on alert to help as needed. A handful of “guardian angels” have graced us with their help at the most opportune moments this past year. This included Steve Hoyt who rescued a despondent Abby (and driver Tom) on the side of the road in Macon when her alternator broke. Thank you Steve for your speedy mechanical abilities and your much appreciated generosity! And speaking of saving…Tony Shore has saved untold numbers of potentially twisted ankles by building sturdy steps for visitors to use to exit the bus. We appreciate Clay Helms’ electrical work involving the much needed hefty power cord for the bus. Our programs are benefitting from the donations of Native American replica pottery and tools made by Brian Floyd and Scott Jones. Starr Wright appeared exactly when needed to help solve a significant technology issue in the nick of time. Thanks to all of Abby’s guardian angels! Another set of individuals who form the loose coalition known secretly as the ArchaeoBus Spouses Support Group (Dale Provenzano, Gisela Weis, and Dan Elliott) are thanked for their long-suffering through bus rides and car/bus drop off schedules, late night and weekend work assignments, dead batteries, absentee spouses, jammed locks, and blown bulbs!

Abby’s year in review includes: the construction of her interior infrastructure, exhibit creation and installation, mechanical repairs and upgrades, development of the formal program (including hands-on activities) for middle schoolers, development of Teacher Guidelines and associated resource materials for the SGA web site, and writing the initial draft of the administrative manual and guidelines. Abby was not finished until May of 2009. In spite of this, she still managed to reach 8,492 people, primarily through informal programs.

Figure 3. ArchaeoBus funding sources.

Figure 3 is a chart showing the breakdown of all funding sources to date (2007–2009). Currently, all but approximately $5,000 of this has been spent in a successful effort to take the vehicle from a bookmobile to a 21st century ArchaeoBus. We give a resounding cheer of thanks to all of our sponsors and funders for their much appreciated financial support. This includes The Georgia Transmission Corporation, BestBuy, The Council on American Indian Concerns, The Georgia Council of Professional Archaeologists, Southern Research, and Mr. and Mrs. Carleton Crabill, Jr.. Some funds were earmarked, such as the BestBuy grant for technology and certain funds for programming. The Georgia Transmission Corporation made two contributions, the first for the vehicle “wrap.” SGA also provided a second infusion of funds this past May.

Figure 4. ArchaeoBus expenses.

How were these funds, totaling just over $20,000, allocated? As Figure 4 depicts, almost $6,000 has gone into the purchase of the vehicle, inspections, repairs, maintenance, and a large chunk to insurance. Just under $5,500 was spent on the prep and wrapping of the bus exterior. Just over $4,000 went to the construction of the bus interior and the fabrication and installation of the exhibit. A total of $4,000 has been spent on technology. The smallest portion of expenditures to date has been spent on programming, totaling just over $1,000.

Insurance and maintenance will continue to be a large piece of the pie. The wrap, interior and technology are complete, so we expect no huge expenses in this arena in the near future. Our smallest area of expenses, programming, is the very reason the bus exists. And now that we have the vehicle remade and repaired, we look forward to throwing our time, energy, funding, and resources into programming and expect that a year from now, programming will be most of the pie!

During the past six months with few attempts to solicit venues, we have exposed 8,500 people to the Archaeobus and archaeology. We expect to reach much larger numbers when we begin a concerted effort to deliver both formal and informal programming next year.

You may wonder about Abby’s New Years’ Resolutions. She resolves to be even busier in 2010 as she rolls into extensive programming. Abby will wrap up her coastal visit in January and return to Athens where she will be available for formal programming to 8th graders in the public private, and parochial schools of Athens-Clarke County. Throughout the year she will also visit non-school venues for informal programs. Abby may even venture to the capitol steps in Atlanta, so Georgia’s state lawmakers can meet her and discover Georgia archaeology. Track Abby on this website and see if she keeps her resolutions in 2010!

GMAS » BRAG + NoGAG

There is both bad news and good news in the story of SGA’s chapters. First the bad news: sadly, the Georgia Mountains Archaeological Society (GMAS) in Gainesville is no more. The good news is that there is a new SGA chapter rising in north Georgia. The Blue Ridge Archaeology Guild (BRAG) is meeting on the third Thursday each month at North Georgia College and State University (NGCSU) at 7:00 pm in Young Hall.

The new club is made up of community members from Dahlonega and the surrounding area, and meets regularly with the newly-formed student club, the North Georgia Archaeology Guild (NoGAG). Each group has 20–25 potential members on their mailing lists. Since both groups are still in the formative stages, actual membership is hard to define, but it is expected that each will have 15–20 members. They will undertake projects together as they become available. Their differing schedules will allow different members of the two groups to work on various projects, depending on the time of year, semester calendars, holidays, and so on, throughout the year.

BRAG officers include Jason Norsworthy, President; Rob Jones, VP; Beni Gail Head, Secretary; and Gary Northcutt, Treasurer. NoGAG officers are Kyle Duncan, President; Megan Parks, VP; Ginni Walker, Secretary; and Amber Cannon, Treasurer. Drs. Jack Wynn and Tamara Spike are the professional advisors for the groups. By-laws are being prepared for BRAG, to be adopted shortly and submitted to the SGA for approval as a new chapter. By-laws for NoGAG are being reviewed by committees within the University for acceptance as an official University student club.

The clubs began monthly meetings in late August, 2009. So far, the initial programs have been general how-to sessions. One person called them “Archaeology 101 classes.” They have included impromptu talks about Georgia archaeology and prehistory, artifact identification, methods and techniques, and ethics, and lively discussions of what the members want to learn and to do. Those attendees who had not seen it were encouraged to read the Dickens and McKinley book, “Frontiers in the Soil, The Archaeology of Georgia,” from the Carl Vinson Institute at UGA, which they can order online.

The groups worked together to assist Forest Service Archaeologist Becky Bruce-Vaughters in preparing a total station map of CCC Camp Woody (GA F-1) in the Suches community of Union County, on October 31. Later they will assist her in surveying new wildlife openings in the mountains. Additional field and laboratory projects are planned for December and after the New Year begins.

The creation of these two new groups was announced at the Fall SGA meeting at the Gwinnett Environmental and Heritage Center in October.

Our annual public meetings and Archaeology Month events are occasions that expose all that is good about SGA. Our members respond with a great turnout and inevitably we reach a goodly number of others who are just plain curious about Georgia archaeology. The spring meeting at Wesleyan College in Macon was just such an event where, like the spring meeting the previous year, there were over 100 in attendance. And a great many talented and dedicated people worked hard to make all these events a success, as they do year in and year out.

I’m satisfied that there are thousands of people out there with a keen interest in Georgia archaeology, beyond the hundreds we’ve reached for so long. Two new assets of SGA will help us attract and educate them. How ‘bout that ArchaeoBus!? The great unveiling—and christening—happened at Wesleyan in front of a raucous, giddy crowd. And there are now any number of anecdotes from its drivers about interested motorists and onlookers who’ve demanded to know, “Cool—what is this all about!?” And, naturally, we can’t wait to tell them. Then there’s the new edition of the SGA website. It is chock full of wonderful information, all presented in a very attractive and, if I may say so, a pretty classy design. Our webmasters have done a splendid job, but the content our members and others are providing is what ensures ultimate success.

Amongst these bright spots we find challenges, many of which stem from the sad economic state of the world. We cannot help but be dismayed and concerned about the eroding levels of support historic and archaeological sites held in the public trust are receiving. This climate makes it an even greater challenge to secure the future of numerous other, unprotected sites that remain vulnerable to all manner of threats. This includes the predictable uptick in looting that comes with economic downturns. We all will want to find ways to encourage support for the state’s heritage resources, and commit to taking personal steps, like volunteer efforts, that make a difference.

Finally, I look forward to joining you in Gwinnett County for our fall meeting. Look for details in the fall issue of The Profile and on the website. I know that many of us have been very busy this summer in ways that should make for a full slate of wonderful presentations.

Yours in SGA,

Dennis Blanton, President

Since our initial implementation of the revamped website early this year, we’ve continued to add stories and make sure the new material can be found. We continue to work toward making our Society’s website useful and informative to students, educators, researchers, and those with an interest in our human past.

Now that there’s substantial material on the website, we’ve given you three ways to find material of interest to you. In short, they are 1) a hierarchical listing conforming to a “site map” (not the archaeological kind!); 2) a search box, where you can enter any word, phrase, or even number you are interested in; and 3) a tag cloud. You can see all three on the right-hand side of all pages of our SGA website. At the top is the hierarchical listing, then the tag cloud, and at the bottom, the search box.

The most obvious way to find stories on the website is to use the hierarchy listed vertically on the right, atop the sage green bar. Everything on the website is linked to at least one of these categories or subcategories. These categories are topical to the Society and the website, including, for example, calendar, ArchaeoBus, Archaeology Month, Publications, and Chapters, as well as SGA’s inner workings, such as the Endowment Fund, our bylaws, our vision and mission, and the like. Expect these to be expanded somewhat in the near future, as the ArchaeoBus team produces more materials and stories.

View of web page, scrolled down to show all three zones on the sage green “navigation” bar.

You may also have noticed that we implemented a search box, shown at the bottom of the sage green bar on the right, far below the hierarchy. You can type any topic or word of interest in this box, including phrases and numbers. For example, if you were interested in primitive technology, you could type in that phrase, or “knapping.” That would produce a list of the stories or entries in which that word or words were used. The listing will be newest to oldest, with the most recent story at the top.

We have very recently implemented a third way to find stories of interest: tags. On this website, tags are words or phrases that cross-cut the hierarchical listing. Not every story has been tagged, because some are “housekeeping” stories and out-of-date, for example, notices of upcoming meetings and the like. Instead, the tags focus on topics likely to be useful to those interested in the archaeology of Georgia rather than the Society itself. After all, the latter is well-delineated in the hierarchical listing. Thus, the tags focus on archaeological topics and content that researchers may be interested in.

Look between the hierarchical listing and the search box for the tag cloud, entitled “Tags.” All those words and phrases jumbled together into a single list are the tags currently used on this website. The tags are presented in what is called a tag cloud, because the shape resembles the blobby shape of a cumulus cloud (the stylized kind you see in a coloring book). Tag clouds are a specific type of word cloud. Word clouds are generated from any set of words (e.g., the Declaration of Independence, this article, the Bible), whereas tag clouds are special word clouds generated from just those words used as tags.

Word clouds are a visual representation of the frequency of words and phrases within a given text (can range from a sentence to a webpage, etc.). The relative size of the font of the words indicates how frequently they are used in the given text. The larger-size tags in the cloud on our website have been used more frequently. As time goes on, and more stories are published, and therefore are tagged, the shape and size of the tag cloud on our website will change.

So, our website’s tags use what words and phrases? At present, they include rough time periods (e.g., Paleoindian, Woodland, Postbellum, Twentieth century), a few general artifact types (e.g., lithics, glass, nails), a few places (e.g., Fort Daniel, Etowah, Kolomoki), and other topics of interest like stewardship and outreach, excavation and survey.

The list of tags is not exhaustive, so remember you can also use the search box above the tag cloud to find stories relevant to your interests.

NOTE: Should you be interested in making a word cloud, you can visit this Wordle page and create your own. Here’s a Wordle-generated word cloud for this story that uses multiple colors, allows some words to be portrayed vertically, has rounded corners, and discards common words like “and” and “the.”

As your editor, it is my pleasure to announce that starting with the next issue, The Profile will be published exclusively in electronic format. The SGA Board made this decision at its recent retreat in an effort to cut costs. For you, the reader, the benefit will be having a full-color publication with no page limit, while more of your membership dollars will go to a range of activities in support of archaeology in Georgia. The electronic version of The Profile will be posted on the revamped SGA website. You will receive an email when the new issue is available with a link to the electronic Profile. The content of The Profile will be accessible as individual articles that you can read online (saving a few trees), but the website will also give you the option of printing the full issue if you choose.

Let me refer you to Sammy Smith’s article about the new website here. To ensure a smooth transition to electronic distribution, please be sure that the SGA Secretary, Tom Gresham, has your current email address. He can be reached via email at sgasecretary@thesga.org.

I look forward to The Profile’s bold stride into the digital age! If you have any questions or concerns about the transition, please feel free to contact me at (770) 270-1192 ext. 118, during business hours.

The SGA’s website committee—that is: Michael Shirk, Kevin Kiernan, and Sammy Smith—has been hard at work developing a new website for the Society. Actually, the three of us have been working on content and ideas for the structure of the site. Most of the technological heavy lifting has been done for the SGA on a generous pro-bono basis, by JC Burns of jcbD. View the fruit of our labors at thesga.org.

Technical background

JC suggested we think about the website as the sum of three distinct components: content (that is, the stuff we SGA members generate: words, pictures, downloads), structure (how the parts of the website link together), and design (the colors, fonts, the template of the look of the site, aka the theme). Our goal is to maximize the time SGA volunteers can spend on content, and minimize the amount of time we have to allocate to design and structure—in a perfect world, anyway! JC created the design, and we worked with him, with input from the Board and Officers, to build the structure of the website—that is, how the individual chunks of content relate to the website as a whole.

The SGA website is now dynamically generated from a database—what web developers call a Content Management System (CMS), which gives us a simple and plain window for entering the content, and the software automatically formats the materials according to a standardized plan that is implemented separately (aka the “theme”). This software meets current web-design standards, and will serve the Society well as we move increasingly into the cloud. The term “the cloud” is a metaphor for the internet, so SGA is in the cloud now that we provide virtualized resources (e.g., stories from The Profile, photographs from our meetings) over the internet. Some people consider the cloud to be the ultimate form of globalization. Using the cloud allows the SGA to reduce capital expenditures, improve outreach (e.g., as ArchaeoBus activities expand), and add detail to the information we offer about archaeology in Georgia.

What’s on the website now

The new look of the website is mostly that—a new look to materials you have seen on the previous incarnation of our website, developed and maintained over many years by Mike Shirk—a tip o’ the hat for all your work over these many years, and a big thanks, Mike!

What the CMS gives us is a way for the materials on our website to be accessed dynamically–that is, when you call for it with your browser. For example, you can get to a particular article that Scott Jones wrote on beveled points and Edgefield scrapers via the listing for the Fall 2008 issue of The Profile, which is when it was published, but also by clicking on “Artifact information” under “Georgia archaeology resources.”

By the way, articles that are still timely from recent issues of The Profile are now posted as separate chunks of content, and older articles that report on archaeological research are also being posted to the website as time permits. The goal is for our SGA website to become a substantive resource for those researching both broad questions and detailed information about Georgia’s human past.

New features

You might enjoy several of the website’s new features. We have implemented a search option that is quite handy. Any word in any story can be searched for; this is a powerful new tool for searching the increased content we will make available on the website.

Regular visitors to thesga.org will discover the “Weekly Ponder.” Each Ponder, posted Friday mornings at 5 AM, will provide as fresh look at any topic pertinent to Georgia’s past and the practice of archaeology in Georgia. Ponders are brief stories, accompanied by a picture. Keep your eyes peeled for each new Ponder, and submit one yourself!

We’ve also incorporated a glossary, based on an article from the 2001 Early Georgia, “Resources at Risk,” which is a primer on Georgia archaeology.

You’ll also find a calendar of events that is robust and useful— please send in Chapter meeting notices and other activities, so they can be included!

Indeed, each Chapter has its own area of the website, although now the content is mostly from older issues of The Profile. Your submissions can change this!

Using a simple utility that generates maps based on latitude and longitude, you will find map information linked to applicable stories. This includes meetings! If you click on one of these maps, you will go to a navigable version on a Google Map page. It’s even easier and handier than it sounds!

We have added more goodies to the website-check it out yourself and see what you like! Please realize that this is not a finished or static website. What we now have will be augmented regularly, as SGA becomes increasingly “in the cloud.” (What a contrast to being “in the dirt,” where we archaeology types often dream about spending our time!)

The Board has voted to shift to distributing The Profile using the internet, for various reasons (see article here). We will still have quarterly “issues” of The Profile (meaning a collection of articles and reports, news and information), and, from now on you will find the articles from each new issue posted to our website. We will also post news between issues of The Profile.

Looking forward

Of the three components of our website, the design and structure are now pretty much nailed down (although they can be changed should that become appropriate). We already have added some of the content that forms the backbone of the website. We anticipate adding more content going forward, and also beefing up our older, archived materials as time and energy permit.

We also hope to incorporate new materials. As the ArchaeoBus programs are refined, we plan to add those materials on the website, and use the power of the CMS software to allow us to repurpose materials developed for educational outreach via ArchaeoBus programs for distribution via our website. We also hope to branch out in new directions—maybe we’ll soon have an SGA store!

The Visitor Information Center Program of the Georgia Department of Economic Development’s Tourism Division is once again sponsoring Georgia On My Mind Days at Georgia’s Visitor Centers. These events are free, and SGA can set up a table/display (we must provide the table) to distribute our brochures and informational fliers; offer fun, educational games and activities for kids; and generally educate the public about archaeology in Georgia and perhaps drum up new members. Visitors to these events come from everywhere (locals and people from across the state of Georgia and beyond), and the events get newspaper/media coverage that could help raise the profile of SGA and our mission. Many people attend and enjoy the festival-like atmosphere. This is a fun activity and a great project for SGA’s chapters.

See the website here for more information on the dates and locations of the events, presented at right. If you would like to participate or coordinate an SGA presence at one of the events, please contact Pamela Johnson at pamjohnson@dot.ga.gov or (404) 699-4424.

Locations and Dates
Augusta Visitor Center, July 17, 2009
Columbus Visitor Center, March 27, 2009
Kingsland Visitor Center, May 15, 2009
Lavonia Visitor Center, May 22, 2009
Plains Visitor Center, May 9, 2009
Ringgold Visitor Center, June 19, 2009
Savannah Visitor Center, May 29, 2009
Sylvania Visitor Center, April 16, 2009
Tallapoosa Visitor Center, June 5, 2009
Valdosta Visitor Center, April 3, 2009
West Point Visitor Center, July 31, 2009

The SGA’s Board of Directors and Officers met for a retreat on 23-24 January 2009 at Camp Martha Johnston Girl Scout Camp west of Macon. We inspected this large meeting room and dining hall and thought, if we didn’t need to darken the room, this would make a fine meeting place for a semi-annual SGA meeting.

While we spent two days indoors discussing SGA business, the evening in between we did campfire activities. Board Member Brian Floyd, of Douglas, started a fire in the fire circle the Scouts had established on the hilltop. For extra fun, he had brought well-dried replica pottery that he had made previously, and we fired them! They all came out really well, and were quite gorgeous.

Of course, we also enjoyed s’mores!

 

Working on the Society for Georgia Archaeology’s Endowment Fund has been an insightful learning experience. Most recently, it has been both a somber and uplifting one. As many of you know, Mr. Fred Scheidler, a devout SGA member, recently passed away. Our condolences go to his wife, Carol; son, David; and all his family, friends, and fellow SGA members. The outpouring of tributes, letters, and memorials to Fred paint a vivid picture of him. Fred was so committed to SGA that he did not limit himself to participation in one chapter; he actively participated in the Bulloch Hall Archaeological Society, the Greater Atlanta Archaeological Society, the Northwest Georgia Archaeological Society chapter, as well as the Georgia Mountains Archaeology Society chapter in Gainesville. Many friends wrote to say that Fred “was a dedicated member of your organization,” and “very much enjoyed the time he spent with your group exploring the history of Georgia and other sites he visited,” and was a “super-member of SGA.” Notes went on to say that Fred freely circulated his own archaeology newsletter, Great Dirt, and encouraged people to attend SGA events. He was enamored with archaeology since the age of 14 when he “found a dugout canoe in the Florida swamps.” Phrases echoed in the endowment contribution letters included, “will be greatly missed by all who knew him,” “beloved friend,” “fellow lover of the study of archaeology,” and “old friend.” Insightful, indeed.

Fred’s very passion for sharing archaeology with others continues even now. The donations in his name will grow the Endowment Fund, allowing the interest to be used for just the kind of research and outreach that Fred enjoyed and shared so generously with others. As one tribute stated, “We wish you success and joy in your future endeavors, as I’m sure Fred will be there with you all in spirit.” Yes, I know he will.

Thank you to all who saw the Endowment as a “meaningful option” to appropriately memorialize Fred, and in thus doing, to continue his work in such an uplifting way. These include: Larry Blair; R.F. (Dick) Brunelle; James Comer and Rachelle McIntosh; the Northwest Georgia Archaeological Society; Jimmy and Ruth Fouche; Laurie Ruhl and Lois Rarick and Ellen Mullinax; Betsy and Michael Shirk; Calvin (Bic) and Jennifer Vogel; Jack Wynn; and members of the Greater Atlanta Archaeological Society (Elizabeth Allan, Dennis Blanton, Terry Hynes, David Kasriel, Lynn Kirkland, Pat Lorusso, Gordon and Carole Midgette, Thomas Peard, Carol Reed, Allen Vegotsky, and Constance White).

The current total of The Society for Georgia Archaeology Endowment Fund is $21,219.46. If you would like more information about the endowment, please contact Rita Elliott, ritafelliott@windstream.net, (912) 826-5214.

ArchaeoBus is quickly becoming more than just a pretty face! The last Profile article described the colorful “wrap” that will embellish the exterior of the vehicle and create an exciting traveling billboard for public archaeology outreach. Thanks to Best Buy Children’s Foundation, ArchaeoBus will now be equipped with substantial technology that will expand the potential of its programs to middle school students and their communities. Equipment such as a computer, large screen flat panel HDTV or interactive white board, scanner, digital camera and software will allow interactivity on two levels. On one level, students are presented with new material in PowerPoint presentations, archaeology game shows, quizzes, video clips, photographs, and lab information. They work solo and in groups using this material and information from a series of low-tech activities and interactives. On a second level, students use this new information and regroup for a chance to discover places of value within their community and how they can help save or document them. The students use digital aerial photographs, topographical maps, computerized site forms, and digital photography to record an archaeological site from their community. The site form is then transmitted electronically to the official Georgia Archaeological Site File. Students and teachers are encouraged to extend their ArchaeoBus learning opportunities to activities throughout the year, and are provided with information and resources to do so. The ArchaeoBus project will help children learn traditional subjects (in a unique way) along with higher-level cognitive skills, while empowering them to make a difference in their communities.

We are thrilled that Best Buy Children’s Foundation has recognized that the ArchaeoBus Mobile Archaeology Classroom project aligns with the foundation’s goal to, “provide positive experiences that will help youth excel in school, engage in their communities, and develop leadership skills.” We are especially pleased to begin this phase of what eventually will be a statewide program in the Athens-Clarke County area, where Best Buy Store #511 is located. Natalie Echeverri, Store Manager, was instrumental in working with us to apply for the Local Giving Program grant. We can’t wait to unveil the new bus and begin this educationally stimulating program. Thank you Ms. Echeverri, Mr. Brian Crawford, Product Process Manager, and Best Buy Children’s Foundation!!

Fred, doing what he loved.

Georgia archaeology lost an enthusiastic advocate upon the premature death of Fred Scheidler on July 15th. Fred resided in Marietta and in recent years had become a constant and welcome participant at a host of archaeological gatherings in and around Atlanta.

Archaeology was a lifelong interest of Fred’s, having become smitten with the subject as a boy in Florida. One of his favorite stories involved the discovery and preservation of a dugout canoe deep in the woods near his childhood home.

In support of the Society for Georgia Archaeology he cheerfully served as President of the Bulloch Hall chapter based in Roswell and as Publicity Chairman of the Greater Atlanta chapter, in addition to maintaining active membership in the Northwest Georgia and Georgia Mountains chapters. It is safe to say that there wasn’t an archaeological endeavor Fred didn’t love and he gave generously of his time by volunteering countless hours wherever he could. He was ever eager to relate storiesof his volunteer experiences, whether inventorying collections at Chieftains in Rome, assisting with a geophysical survey at Etowah, excavating in the northern hills or on the lower Ocmulgee, or working with collections at Fernbank Museum of Natural History. Fred is remembered in fact for his interest in carpooling to out-of-town events where he would regale like-minded friends with these and other stories.

Fred’s passion for archaeology inspired him to pursue numerous other projects independently. At any time he might have been found researching abandoned mines north of Atlanta, seeking to explain the accidental discovery of a brass “thunder mug” cannon, or tinkering to design better equipment for the field or lab. Most recently Fred was generating what became a much-loved electronic newsletter called “Great Dirt.” In numerous issues recipients were not only alerted to upcoming events relevant to archaeology, but they were treated to virtual excursions to projects around the globe.

Fred is survived by his wife, Carol Scheidler, and a son and daughter-in-law, David and Lauren Scheidler. The family recommends honoring Fred’s memory with donations to either:

The Society for Georgia Archaeology
Endowment Fund
c/o Secretary
P.O. Box 693
Athens, GA 30603

Fred Scheidler Memorial Fund
Episcopal Church of the Annunciation
1673 Jamerson Rd.
Marietta, GA 30066

At the 2008 spring meeting of The Society for Georgia Archaeology (SGA), Thomas H. Gresham received the Joseph R. Caldwell Award for outstanding service to Georgia Archaeology. The Caldwell Award recognizes those individuals dedicating a noteworthy amount of time and energy toward supporting an archaeological project; making outstanding contributions in the area of public education and Georgia archeology; and providing substantial support for SGA and its programs over time.

Mr. Gresham has been dedicated to preserving the history and prehistory of Georgia and making that information available to the public, often by donating his time and expertise, often behind the scenes, for the past thirty years. As a principal in Southeastern Archeological Services cultural resource management firm, Tom has performed archaeological investigations in an ethical and professional manner, resulting in the identification and protection of hundreds of sites in Georgia. He has also pursued research interests such as his investigation of historic rock piles and aided in interpretation of these sites. An Eagle Scout, he has volunteered with the Boy Scouts of America in investigations around Clark Hill Reservoir as well as made numerous presentations to school groups, library groups, and others to raise awareness of Georgia’s archaeological resources.

Mr. Gresham is past President of the Georgia Council of Professional Archaeologists, long time officer and board member of the LAMAR Institute and President of the Oglethorpe County Historical Society. Tom has worked for the protection of human burials and was on the committee that drafted Georgia’s burial law, OGA 36-72. In addition, as a governor-appointed member of the Georgia Council on American Indian Concerns since its inception, Tom has provided archaeological expertise in dealing with burial issues brought before the Council as well as assisted in producing information to explain the laws and landowner rights to the public and developers. He has devoted innumerable volunteer hours as an active member of SGA.

Mr. Gresham is currently serving his second term as Secretary of SGA, having served a 4-year term as board member prior to taking this office and for five years prior to that as editor of The Profile. During his term as board member, he was instrumental in preparation of the application for 501(c)3 status as well as providing the solution for a permanent address for the organization. As Secretary he has continued to manage the member database, coordinate new member services, and provide support for Early Georgia distribution.

Notably, Mr. Gresham was the mover and shaker behind the recent acquisition of the Athens Clarke County regional library’s retired bookmobile for refitting as SGA’s archaeology mobile, and secured the $5,000 grant from Georgia Transmission Corporation to cover the cost of getting the bus wrapped!

The award, last presented in 2007 to Rita Elliott, reflects the many contributions of Joseph Ralston Caldwell, whose archaeological fieldwork in Georgia and work in the Southeastern U.S. began at the Works Progress Administration excavations near Savannah during the late Depression. He served as Professor of Anthropology at the University of Georgia from 1967 until his death in 1973. The first Caldwell Award was presented in 1990 to long-time SGA member George S. Lewis, followed by Frankie Snow in 1992, Jim Langford in 1993, David Chase in 2000, and Betsy Shirk in 2004.

Madison Zerbe, fifth grade, and her winning exhibit.

For the sixth year, SGA and the Georgia Council of Professional Archaeologists sponsored an Archaeology Award at the State Social Studies Fair held at Clayton State University on March 22. Madison Zerbe, a fifth grade student at Varnell Elementary School, won for her project on “Sequoyah.” Joshua Smith, a ninth grade student from Hiram High School, won for his project on “The Five Civilized Tribes.” Both students will receive a cash prize and related Archaeology Month materials.

Joshua Smith, ninth grade, and his winning exhibit.

Many readers of The Profile have no doubt heard of the recent announcement of the pending transfer of ownership of the Singer-Moye mound site from the Columbus Museum to the University of Georgia. Those that have not will likely want to know how this decision came about, while those with some understanding of it will surely want to know more. Recognizing both this and the interest of this publication’s readership in seeing that archaeologically-important sites in the state of Georgia are properly maintained, I would like to take this opportunity to explain to the SGA membership the arrangement between the Museum and the University.

Before discussing the transfer, however, I would like to first acquaint readers with the Singer-Moye mound site and its importance. The site is located in Stewart County, Georgia, near the town of Lumpkin. A Mississippian-era mound center listed on the National Register of Historic Places, it features eight known earthen mounds surrounding a large central plaza. The tallest of these mounds, known as Mound A, stands over 40 feet high, making it the fourth largest such structure in Georgia behind mounds at Etowah, Ocmulgee, and Kolomoki. Archaeological study has revealed the earliest habitation of the site dates to several thousand years ago, with the Mississippian mound center being built and occupied circa A,D. 1000 to approximately 1450. The mound center was apparently abandoned prior to the arrival of European explorers in the Southeast in the 1500s. Perhaps the most significant feature of the site is its unique setting. Whereas most similar mound centers are located along major waterways, the Singer-Moye site is situated a significant distance from the nearest noteworthy creek and many miles from the Chattahoochee River and the nearly contemporary Rood’s Landing mound site.

Mound A at the Singer-Moye site.

The Singer-Moye mound site has been owned and maintained by Columbus Museum for over 40 years. The property consists of approximately 42 acres, which were donated to the Museum over a period of several years by the Singer and Moye families. A small parcel was donated by the Georgia-Kraft Corporation for the purpose of acquiring an access road to the property. While the acreage owned by the Museum contains the heart of the Mississippian mound center, it should be noted that outlying village areas associated with the site extend for a significant distance, perhaps even miles, from the site. Owing to the recognition of its importance by previous owners, diligent monitoring by recent caretakers as well as its remote location, the site has suffered relatively little from vandalism. It stands today among the bestpreserved sites of its kind in the Southeast.

Mound B at the Singer-Moye site.

The Columbus Museum, under the direction of retired archaeologist Frank Schnell and in association with several partnering institutions, has conducted extensive archaeological investigation on portions of the site during its ownership. These efforts included the excavation of exploratory trenches, investigation of the summits of two of the mounds, scattered small-scale testing, and intensive examination of Mounds C, E and H. Investigation of Mounds E and H, technically earthlodges, by longtime field archaeologist and site superintendant Don Gordy along with archaeologist Margaret Russell and several volunteers, has yielded the great majority of information known about the origins, development, and use of the mound site. Thousands of artifacts, including pottery sherds, faunal and botanical remains, and a small number of stone tools, have been recovered over three decades of intermittent investigations and are currently curated by the Columbus Museum. Recently, faculty and students from Columbus State University and the University of Georgia have become involved with the site. Between 2004 and 2006, Dr. Warren Church of CSU conducted smallscale field school training, directed students in a variety of volunteer maintenance activities, and supervised interns in the cataloging of artifacts gathered from the site. In 2006, Dr. Mark Williams, assisted by his students at UGA, oversaw the creation of a topographical map of the site (see map).

Mound C at the Singer-Moye site.

At the same time that this research has resulted in an evolution of our understanding of the site, the Columbus Museum itself has undergone change. In the 40 years since the Museum acquired the property, it has matured as an institution and honed its mission to reflect the strength of its collection and its role in the community it serves. The Museum was founded in 1953, and at different times in the past its interpretive thrusts have included a range of types of American and international art, local history, archaeology, and even the natural sciences. As is the case with many similar institutions, the academic specialties and interests of staff heavily influenced its direction regarding exhibitions, publications, and educational programming from one era to the next. Seeking to define more explicitly the purpose and goals of the Museum so that it could sharpen its focus and most effectively utilize its resources, over two decades ago its Board of Trustees formally adopted the mission statement that continues to guide its development:

The mission of the Columbus Museum is to collect, preserve, research and interpret American art and regional culture for the education, enrichment and enjoyment of a broad and diverse public.

This statement was decided upon after careful consideration of the Museum’s ability to sustain vibrant programs that enhanced the lives of its visitors. As a consequence, the Museum has found it impractical to provide for the growing needs of its core programs of American art and regional history and simultaneously maintain a professional archaeological program. Logistical concerns, space requirements and staffing issues were among a number of factors that influenced the decision to cease Museum-funded archaeological investigation. While the interpretation of items discovered through archaeology have been, and will remain, a vital part of the Museum’s interpretive focus, the Museum will no longer be a lead institution in archaeological undertakings or accept unaccessioned archaeological collections for long-term care. All archaeological collections already in the Museum’s possession that materially aid its interpretation of the earliest periods of human habitation of the lower Chattahoochee River valley will continue to be curated.

Don Gordy excavating the earth lodge at the Singer-Moye site.

The Museum at length came to the realization that the ownership of a large, nationally important Mississippian mound site situated over 40 miles from its main campus was no longer in the best interest of either the Museum or the site. Though committed to maintaining this local landmark and ensuring its preservation to the best of its ability, the Museum simply could not develop the site into the type of educational resource it desired it to be with its limited resources. As a consequence, the Museum sought out a regional institution that shared its vision for the site that might be better equipped to provide for its long-term care and development.

Singer-Moye Mound Center, Stewart County, Georgia. Mound locations: black—older map used by Blitz and Lorenz; white—recent topographic map by Wood and Williams. (Overlay map by permission of Wood and Williams.)

In 2005, the Museum decided to approach the University of Georgia about a potential transfer of the property and its associated archaeological collections. It already enjoyed a healthy working relationship with the University and was well aware of the depth of its intellectual and financial resources and how they might work to the benefit of the site. University officials were enthusiastically receptive to the proposal, and after initial negotiations, recommended the site be brought into the University’s care under the auspices of the Georgia Museum of Natural History. Since then, Museum staff and trustees have been working with Dr. Byron Freeman, Director of the Museum of Natural History, and other University faculty and representatives to organize a plan of action. While all involved have consistently recognized the potential of this promising arrangement, progress toward the transfer has been deliberate. In March of 2008, the University’s Board of Regents officially approved the transfer; the move was subsequently approved by the Museum’s Executive Committee. Currently, final arrangements are being made to complete the process.

The Museum believes the transfer of ownership of the Singer-Moye site is in the best long-term interest of the site and we look forward to serving as a partner in UGA’s efforts to preserve and interpret it. In addition to continued preservation and stabilization efforts, mapping activities and possible future archaeology at the site, there is great potential for a variety of types of collaborative research. Zoological, botanical and geological studies conducted by UGA and partnering organizations are among the many possibilities under consideration. The Museum plans to remain involved with the site by periodically conducting tours and continuing to serve as an advocate for its responsible use as a part of a broad collaborative network of scientists, educators, and interested citizens. The Museum believes that under UGA’s leadership, the Singer-Moye mound site will be preserved properly and at the same time become a unique resource for the local community, state and region.

The Columbus Museum extends its thanks to Terry Jackson for inviting me to discuss the transfer of the site in this forum. We welcome your comments, thoughts, and suggestions.

Recently my husband, Dan, and I learned of the deaths of two friends. Both had been clergy and both were connected to the coastal colonial site of the Salzburgers, some of Georgia’s first European settlers. One friend was young and one was not. One recently died and one passed away several months before we learned of it. Both were supporters of archaeology and history. Flowers were not an option in one case and not preferred in the other. Suddenly it occurred to us that the most fitting way to honor each was through a donation in their memory. A contribution to the SGA Endowment Fund would recognize their support of archaeology in such a living way, as a perpetual source to support archaeology outreach and education across Georgia. What a perfect way to honor the lives and actions of each, by touching countless generations into the future in ways that will help preserve archaeological sites beyond our own lifetimes. Here’s to Raymond Davis and Stewart Hughes, supporters and friends.

While some gifts to the SGA Endowment are in honor or in memory of individuals, others are generously given from honorariums. SGA thanks Dennis Blanton for the contribution to the endowment of an honorarium given him by another organization for a presentation. What a lovely idea. Thank you, Dennis!

Contributions to the SGA Endowment earn interest that is used to support public archaeological outreach by the society. The principal is never spent. Please consider supporting the fund with a check made out to “The Society for Georgia Archaeology” and “Endowment Fund” in the memo line. Checks may be mailed to the SGA Treasurer, P.O. Box 693, Athens, GA 30603. If you have any questions regarding the endowment, please contact: Rita Elliott, (706) 341-7797, or ritafelliott@windstream.net.

From the spring symposium at Fernbank Museum of Natural History in Atlanta, which kicked off Archaeology Month, to the proclamation signing ceremony at the Capitol, which this year provided closure, Archaeology Month 2008 was a success. Months of planning and hard work by the Archaeology Month committee and volunteer laborers preceded the promotion. Archaeology Month committee members included Betsy Shirk (chair), Dennis Blanton and Kate Ruedrich (poster, lesson plan and spring program), Pamela Johnson (events), Catherine Long (distribution), and Tammy Herron (publicity).

Once again, SGA relied on contributions of co-sponsors and event sponsors to take this program to the public, reaching thousands through our annual promotion. We met our goal of raising public awareness of the importance of our state’s archaeological resources through distribution of 3,000 posters, 1,200 lesson plans, and education of those attending the 22 archaeology month events, including our spring meeting, that celebrated our state’s rich archaeological heritage.

The fifteenth annual Georgia Archaeology Awareness promotion had as its theme “Archaeological Encounters in Georgia’s Spanish Period.” As in past years, educational materials and associated poster, as well as event brochures were distributed statewide to public middle schools, regional libraries, federal and state parks and historic sites, legislators, SGA members in good standing for 2008 and various historical organizations and museums. Event brochures were sent to Georgia Visitor Centers as well.

Materials were distributed the week of April 7. The place to be on Packaging Day, April 8, was Fernbank Museum of Natural History. Catherine Long, Dennis Blanton and Kate Ruedrich coordinated this effort. Volunteers provided the more than 113 hours required to package and distribute the materials. Those who contributed their time were Tammy Herron, Catherine Long, Dennis Blanton, Kate Ruedrich, Tom Gresham, Michael Shirk, Allen Vegotsky, Dick Brunelle, Terri Hynes, Justin Arrington, Scott Morris, David Kasriel, Tom Peard, Lyn Kirkland, Furney Hemingway, Jack Kilgore, and Andrew Vaughn. Members of the Greater Atlanta Archaeological Society and Fernbank Volunteers were instrumental in getting the task accomplished.

Dennis Blanton and Kathryn Ruedrich of Fernbank Museum of Natural History provided poster design and associated lesson plan as co-sponsor of Archaeology Month. The poster graphic profiled the three groups (Native Americans, Spanish soldiers, and priests) representative of the Spanish period in Georgia. Text on the poster back addressed archaeological evidence of the Spanish period in Georgia. The lesson plan consisted of 12 pages and included activities and text targeting 8th grade objectives.

Pam Johnson coordinated events, and the events brochure listed 21 events, including artifact identification days, site tours, open houses, lectures, and exhibits. Mary Beth Reed oversaw event brochure design and printing.

The spring meeting was held on April 26 in Atlanta at Fernbank Museum of Natural History and included a full day of presentations entitled “Archaeological Encounters in Georgia’s Spanish Period: New Discoveries and Improved Understandings.” Speakers included Dave Crass, John Worth, Richard Melvin, Jim Langford, Dennis Blanton and Frankie Snow, Jeannine Windham, Mark Williams, David Hurst Thomas, Richard Jefferies and Christopher Moore, Carolyn Rock and David Hally, and Marvin Smith. A highlight of the meeting was presentation of the Caldwell Award to Tom Gresham.

Once again, SGA reached thousands through its Archaeology Month program. We realized our goal of raising public awareness of the importance of our state’s archaeological resources through distribution of posters and educational materials, and education of those attending the archaeology month events that celebrate our state’s rich archaeological heritage.

 

The Archaeology Bus Committee has several exciting items to report to the membership.

First, John (JC) Burns of jcbD, has generously provided pro-bono work to create the graphic and text design that will go around the vehicle. This will allow the vehicle to be “reborn” from the bookmobile that it was to the new and exciting archaeology vehicle that it will become. Thank you John for this exciting transformation than not only brands the vehicle, but allows it to serve as a traveling billboard for the society and its archaeology preservation and education message!

But how do you get this outstanding design from John’s computer to the vehicle? That’s where the kind hand of Georgia Transmission Corporation picks up the story. The corporation has given $5,000 to pay for the “wrap” of the vehicle. This action is extremely significant, since the wrap will speak volumes in advertising the vehicle, yet would have taken a huge chunk of SGA’s very limited bus budget. Now, thanks to the magnanimity of Georgia Transmission Corporation, we can use our small budget to purchase crucial educational equipment and material. Thank you for your much appreciated financial support! The corporation first learned of our needs for this project through the diligence of committee member Tom Gresham. His approach and discussions with several individuals at Georgia Transmission Corporation paid remarkable dividends for the project. Thank you, Tom, for your continued hard work and diligence on this project! The Archaeology Bus Committee invites the SGA membership to stay tuned to future issues of The Profile for the unveiling of the bus exterior re-design.

Pictured left to right: Joe Joseph, Rochelle Banks (TRC-Houston), SHA Conference Chair Howard Higgins (TRC-Albuquerque), Mary Beth Reed, Jim D’Angelo, and Barbara Garrow.

The Society for Historical Archaeology and Council on Underwater Archaeology held their annual meetings jointly in Albuquerque, New Mexico this past January, co-sponsored by TRC. Papers examined the interface between archaeology and the public. Among the Georgia folks attending were State Archaeologist David Crass, and, representing their respective firms, Joe Joseph, Mary Beth Reed, and Hugh Matternes (all of New South Associates) and Jim D’Angelo (TRC). TRC and New South each had booths in the main venders room.

In the booth next to TRC was the Mactec booth tended by Pat and Barbara Garrow. As these meetings usually are, it was like old home week with the Godfather presiding: TRC was formerly TRC Garrow and Joe and Mary Beth have worked for Pat in the past. So had top winners of TRC’s business card drawing, Dr. Sheli O. Smith, currently a nautical archaeologist with PAST Foundation, and Mary Beth! No, the drawing was not fixed.

Stephen Hammack, the Robins Air Force Base on-site archaeologist, continues to give lectures about the archaeology of the Base. He spoke to Dr. Jo Anna Watson’s Mercer University “Introduction to Archaeology” class in Macon on January 17th, and to the Jones County Rotary Club on February 28th. An informal talk is set for March 14th on base before the Youth Advisory Board, a local group working to protect the environment, while another lecture is set for the Wilkinson County Historical Society in Gordon at 7:30 PM on March 25th. Mr. Hammack will also contribute an article on the Base to an upcoming issue of Early Georgia devoted to archaeology on Georgia’s military bases. Other participating installations (so far) are Kings Bay Naval Submarine Base, Fort Gordon, and Fort Stewart.

As 2008 rolled in, so did a number of important contributions to The Society for Georgia Archaeology’s Endowment Fund. January, alone, brought $700 worth of donations to the fund. These much-appreciated contributions continue to add to the fund’s principal, which is kept in perpetuity, generating interest. This interest provides funding for archaeology public outreach, research, and educational projects of the society. Recent contributors are helping the fund grow to meaningful amounts. These include William and Kathy Cox, Carole Griffith, Richard and Sonja Sellers, and Jack T. and Mary Frank Wynn. Thank you all very much for your support.

We can make great strides in SGA with a constant and steady financial base. The Endowment will provide this base for outreach programs that will touch Georgians far into the future, from modest beginnings to broad programs. Don’t be left out of the excitement!

Please send your tax-deductible check to: SGA Treasurer, P.O. Box 693, Athens, GA 30603. Note on the memo line “Endowment Fund”. If you would like to discuss opportunities for giving, please contact Rita Elliott, (912) 826-5214 or ritafelliott@windstream.net. Thank You!

The 12th Annual CoastFest—Georgia’s largest coastal natural resources festival—was held on October 6, 2007, along the scenic Marshes of Glynn in Brunswick, Georgia at the Department of Natural Resources Regional Headquarters. The Society for Georgia Archaeology’s booth was visited by many of the over 6,700 visitors in attendance. Although the forecast called for rain almost the entire day, we lucked out as not a drop of rain fell on the festivities.

Many of the youngsters (and some of the adults, too) tried their hands at the interesting and informative hands-on and interactive activities at our booth. These activities included a sorting board game with historic artifacts, casts to make rubbings of pottery designs, Guess the Artifact, mending vessels, pottery making, and unprovenienced prehistoric artifacts to see and touch. We also had a number of informational flyers and take-home puzzles, and debuted a freshly revamped SGA display board. Special thanks are extended to Rita Elliot and Ellen Provenzano for lending activities for the exhibit.

A number of the school children visiting our booth were already well versed in historical archaeology and were speed demons at the sorting game after having participated in an archaeology program at Fort Frederica—so yes, our outreach programs do make a difference!

SGA Board Member Tammy Herron and a number of enthusiastic volunteers from President Carolyn Rock’s introductory anthropology class and the Golden Isles Archaeological Society (GIAS) had great time manning the SGA exhibit. Volunteers from Carolyn’s class included Kristene Dewitt, Whitney Espinoza, Gerry Herndon, Tatyana Hickman, Michael Robinson, and Becky Silva. Volunteers from the GIAS included Jack Caldwell, Bill Weaver, Bill McNair, Jeanie Wilburn, Linda Lane, Nick Shorey, and Vince Miller. We appreciate the assistance of “veteran CoastFest volunteer” Bill Weaver in organizing the GIAS volunteers and in manning the booth throughout the day.

Thanks to everyone who assisted in this endeavor in an effort to educate the public about protecting and preserving Georgia’s cultural resources. Remember to save the date: The 13th Annual CoastFest will be held on October 4, 2008. Hope to see you there!

 

The story of the transformation of the Bookmobile acquired by SGA from the Athens Clarke County Regional Library continues! The Archaeology Mobile Advisory Panel had its first meeting on Saturday, November 10. Joined by about 93,000 fans in town for the UGA-Auburn game, members of the advisory panel converged on Athens from around the state. Members present included Rita Elliott (chair), Tammy Forehand, Barbara Bruno, Betsy Shirk, Michael Shirk, Tom Gresham, Steve Kowalewski, Mary Stakes, and Ellen Provenzano. The meeting was hosted by Mary Stakes at the Carl Vinson Institute.

Members of the Archaeology Mobile Advisory Panel and the bus.

To recap: the opportunity arose to acquire the bus from the library system for a reasonable cost. It is a 10-year-old vehicle with over 100,000 miles that was checked out by a mechanic and is in good condition. In addition to the modest fee, SGA agreed to provide a workshop at system library branches and at schools in Clarke County.

Members discussed ideas for outfitting the bus as a selfcontained classroom, including hands-on activities or manipulatives. In addition, wrapping versus painting the exterior of the bus was broached. To get an idea of how awnings, plasma televisions or screens for presentations, and pop up tents might be integrated into the design, panel members took advantage of the RVs parked behind the Varsity and made a site visit to check out options UGA or Auburn fans chose. All had awnings of some type and one had a television that folded out from the lower side of the bus.

The group decided to focus on short-term goals to provide the agreed-upon workshops that would target 4th and 5th graders in Clarke County and provide programs to the branch libraries. Next steps include working on a design plan, contacting elementary schools to find out if this type program would be of interest to teachers, program development, and paint/wrap for the bus. Members were given assignments to prepare for the second meeting scheduled for late January 2009 in Macon.

In Fall 2007, SGA met at the Gwinnett Environmental and Heritage Center, 2020 Clean Water Drive (near The Mall of Georgia), Buford.

The Search For Fort Daniel
Jim D’Angelo, TRC and Gwinnett Archaeological Research Society

The traditional location of one of Georgia’s early frontier forts, Fort Daniel, has been marked with a roadside historical sign for many years, but there has never been any physical evidence to support the supposed location…until now. Archaeological investigations at the Hog Mountain site in Gwinnett County, undertaken by the Gwinnett Archaeological Research Society (GARS) have confirmed the traditional location of the 1813 Fort Daniel and a 1790s fort that preceded it. Hundreds of artifacts, including wrought and early machine nails, musket shot and flint, ceramics, brick, and intact features are consistent with a military installation dating from this period.

Theory and Limitations of Ground Penetrating Radar: Fort Daniel Results
Sheldon Skaggs, University of Georgia

A brief introduction to the theory of GPR and its use in site detection. Results from the Fort Daniel survey will be presented to show how preconceived ideas and soil conditions can limit the usefulness of any remote sensing technique. Emphasis will be placed on comparing two or more techniques in the decision making process along with the use of post excavation knowledge.

Hardin Bridge: A Look at an Early Middle Woodland Settlement
R. Jeannine Windham, New South Associates, Inc

The Hardin Bridge site is a narrow terrace settlement located on the bank of the Etowah River. The early Middle Woodland component at this site shows a dependence on a localized catchment area that was revisited for a restricted amount of time. This paper discusses the Cartersville occupation revealed during recent excavations. Further, the utilization of the immediate catchment area is explored within the concepts of Primary Forest Efficiency and nascent Woodland agricultural practices.

The History of the Dugout Canoe in Georgia
Leslie Perry, Fernbank Museum

From the penned words of Christopher Columbus upon his arrival in the West Indies, the Arawak word ‚“canoa” has evolved to the English word “canoe”. By interpreting the ethno-historical, historical, and archaeological records, and analyzing those records in the context of the known cultural and physiographical environment, the history and evolution of the wooden dugout canoe in Georgia shall come into clearer focus. Selected samples of dugout canoes have surfaced within Georgia boundaries for measurement and study that lend spatial and temporal data which aids in the research. The initial findings suggest a lowdensity recovery rate relative to the size of the state, but the more important story is not mathematical—the critical importance of this cultural resource lies in its ability to relate part of the story of human life gone by.

The Archaeology and Oral History of a Tenant Farming Community in Randolph County, Georgia
Jennifer Azzarello, New South Associates, Inc.

Investigating and managing tenant farming sites in the Southeast can prove challenging as they tend to be underrepresented, poorly preserved, and lacking in artifacts and architectural remains. Recently, the Georgia Department of Transportation initiated a data recovery and oral history survey of Site 9RH41, which has proven to be a well-preserved tenant farming community in Randolph County, Georgia. This paper presents the data that has been collected from the excavations and the oral history survey then poses questions for future research on how to best interpret and manage these resources.

Age-Related Changes in Mortuary Practices at the King Site
David Hally, University of Georgia

Approximately 250 burials were recovered from the 16th century King site in northwestern Georgia during excavations in the early 1970s and early 1990s. Mortuary analysis of the collection, using single-year composite age estimates of burials has allowed a number of age-related status changes to be recognized.

Georgia Trust Places in Peril 2008: SGA Nominates the Sunbury Site (9Li4)
Terry Jackson, SGA Advocacy Subcommittee Chair

The Society for Georgia Archaeology has nominated the colonial town site of Sunbury in Liberty County to be featured on the Georgia Trust for Historic Preservation’s Places in Peril List for 2008. SGA will also be submitting a National Register nomination for the Sunbury Cemetery and possibly for a larger archaeological district encompassing other parts of the original town site, which is now rapidly being lost to residential development. SGA will offer opportunities to the new community at Sunbury to study and save parts of their historic past.

Ocmulgee River Basin Archaeological Project
Stephen A. Hammack, Ocmulgee Archaeological Society (SGA)

Preliminary information on work already completed and work planned for the future will be presented. There are several different components of the project, including: 1) contacting artifact collectors in an effort to document their collections; 2) visiting archaeological sites with landowners and collectors in order to obtain UTM coordinates, gathering preliminary information on site size, and completing site forms to be submitted to the Georgia Archaeological Site File; 3) mapping underwater and/ or maritime sites such as prehistoric sites that have eroded into the river, steamboat and barge remains, and prehistoric and historic fish weirs; and 4) locating the lost Creek Indian towns that were situated along the banks of the Ocmulgee River and its tributaries between 1685 and 1715, and 5) conducting excavations at the Waterworks Park in Macon this fall and winter on 9Bi155, a potentially eligible site that is expected to yield information and artifacts that may be interpreted in a permanent Macon History exposition.

The bus is here!!

The Society for Georgia Archaeology (SGA) is pleased to announce the acquisition of a book mobile from the Athens Regional Library System and the beginning of an innovative, large-scale project. The project, now known as the Archaeology Mobile project, but soon to have an official name, is an ambitious plan aimed at statewide public education, site documentation, and SGA marketing. The goal of the project is to educate Georgians about archaeological, historical, and environmental topics and to collect and record archaeological data from across the state. SGA will begin writing grant proposals to cover the costs of customizing the vehicle; stocking it with equipment and supplies; creating hands-on learning tools; formulating a long-term planning document and operational strategy; and writing K-12 history, archaeology, and environmental web-based curricula. SGA has already begun inviting potential partners having relevant historical and environmental interests and expertise for this far-reaching project.

The bus will be the first-ever dynamic, interactive project that will physically travel the state while connecting to classrooms and other entities through the world-wide web. Teachers, students, and others can track the journey of the bus as it travels around the state, and download archaeological, historical, and environmental interactive lesson plans, resources, and classroom activities relevant to their subjects and to the mandated Georgia Performance Standards. Teachers and students can use distance learning equipment to interact with the bus staff through student interviews and live camera shots. The bus will visit schools, libraries, shopping malls, festivals, and other areas across rural and urban Georgia where visitors can learn through hands-on activities, educational and fun games, interactive computer presentations, and displays. It will be equipped as a stand-alone classroom that can accommodate student and other groups. On non-outreach scheduled days, artifact collectors can visit the bus and share information about area sites with bus staff, who can then record information about the sites. They will be able to scan or photograph artifacts, complete site forms and topographic maps that they send electronically to the Georgia Archaeological Site File, and visit select sites.

First Stop

The bus is currently at its first stop. This has included the purchase of the bus at a nominal fee through the generosity of the Athens Regional Library System and the work of SGA Treasurer Michael Shirk. SGA Secretary Tom Gresham has worked hard to help with the acquisition, including arranging for tax, tag, title, and insurance. SGA President Carolyn Rock and the SGA Board have been actively supporting the project. We are currently formulating an advisory council for the project and will begin initial planning within the next six weeks. SGA members Barbara Bruno and Rita Elliott are creating a short-list of relevant, potential grant funders.

Second Stop

Initially the bus will operate in a temporary mode during the 2007-2008 school year in the Clarke County area. This will be an opportunity to provide outreach on a small scale and discover the successes and challenges with the vehicle and our long-term plans prior to customizing the bus and creating curricula material.

Third Stop

SGA will work with partners to identify symbiotic goals and strategies for the project. We will submit grant proposals to relevant funders for the various components of the project. SGA will then use grant funds to customize and supply the bus, equip it with high-tech tools, write the various web-based curricula, and hire the appropriate administrative and programming personnel.

Fourth Stop

The bus goes on the road! Staff will drive predetermined routes around the state of Georgia, stopping at scheduled locations for public interaction and site recordation. The program will use the internet and web-based curricula throughout.

Fifth Stop

We will evaluate the program and its results. This will allow us to modify the program according to feedback and results documented by staff. At this phase we will seek continued operational support either through fees, operational grants, or other mechanisms.

SGA thanks the Athens Regional Library System, Dr. Bill Prokasy and Mr. Logan Mathis for allowing SGA the opportunity to purchase the bus at a nominal cost for this educational venture. Thanks also to Tom Gresham and Michael Shirk for their involvement in bus acquisition. Thanks go to Barbara Bruno for her past and future assistance with grant funding opportunities for the project. SGA invites you to stay tuned as this project develops.

Don’t miss the bus!

Georgia’s archaeological community has recently lost one of its own. Journalist, artist, archaeologist, and ethnohistorian, Marilyn Pennington passed away on June 9, 2006 at the age of 75. Pennington was born in Bluefield, West Virginia, and earned a bachelor’s degree in journalism from the University of Georgia in 1950. After working as a reporter for The Marietta Daily Journal, as a freelance journalist, as an antique dealer at Scott Antique Market, and as an artist who sold her well-respected work in a shop at the High Museum and at the Piedmont Park Art Festival, and after raising three children, Marilyn Pennington returned to the University of Georgia in her 40s to earn a Master’s degree in anthropology.

Her thesis, entitled ‚“A Comparison of Non-flaked Stone Artifacts from Two Early Historic Sites in Northwestern Georgia,” reflected the interest she developed in Native Americans during the contact and historic period. An example of her treatment of ethnohistoric materials can be found in her Early Georgia (6:1 & 2) article, ‚“Stone Tools in Historical Accounts, 1521-1800.” Some of her other notable scholarly contributions include ‚“Standing Peach Tree: Report of Ethnohistorical Accounts” in Archeological and Historical Research in the Chattahoochee River National Recreational Area (1979), which was prepared for the National Park Service, and the Early Georgia volume (3:1) she edited entitled Georgia Prehistory: An Overview in Time and Space. When employed by the Georgia Department of Natural Resources, she taped an interview with Arthur Kelly in 1973 that was transcribed as a document entitled ‚“In His Own Words: An Interview with Dr. Arthur Kelly (1900-1979),” edited by Mark Williams. This effort is a fascinating and valuable account of archaeology in Georgia and elsewhere in the United States from the 1930s into the 1970s.

Although she came to Native American studies through archaeology, her interests shifted over time to ethnology and linguistics. She spent time living among the Cherokee, collecting oral history, and studying native Southeastern languages.

Ms. Pennington had been paralyzed from the shoulders down for the last three years after contracting a virus that triggered the autoimmune disease, Guillain-Barré syndrome. Nonetheless, friends indicated that she remained intellectually engaged, despite her physical limitations. She ultimately succumbed to complications from cancer. She will be missed by family, friends, and colleagues.