Once again, archaeologists are travelling this summer to the Edgefield area in search of historical information regarding the cultural lives of 19^th century potters and artifacts of the pottery industry.

Area volunteers are invited to provide assistance to the Department of Anthropology, University of Illinois, Urbana-Champaign’s Archeological Field School from May 26, 2013 until July 8, 2013.

This year’s dig will take place in and around Edgefield pottery communities under the direction of Christopher C. Fennell, PhD., Associate Head of the Department of Anthropology at the University of Illinois.

Dr. Fennell reports, “The length of the volunteer work term is flexible, but must be arranged in advance.  Volunteers will provide assistance in varied tasks under the supervision of staff direction.”

There is no charge to participate in the dig, but transportation, meals and lodging are the responsibility of the participants.

While camping facilities are not available, lodging at a specially reduced rate of $50 per night for registered volunteers, is available at the Edgefield Inn.  The rate includes a continental breakfast every day.  Each room has a refrigerator and microwave.  The Inn also features free WiFi and a well equipped exercise room.

Edgefield is a small Southern town located in the southwest of South Carolina.  The Town has a disproportionately vibrant history, having provided ten governors to South Carolina.  The attraction of Edgefield pottery, in more recent times, has brought national prominence to the District.  There are a variety of locally owned restaurants, antique shops,  historical homes and museums to visit and enjoy.   The entire town is on the National Registry of Historic Places.

Required, advanced registration for the dig must be arranged through Carrie Monday, who will handle volunteer organization and coordination.  Email her at carrie.monday@yahoo.com to register and arrange your volunteer schedule.

More information can be found at:

http://www.histarch.uiuc.edu/Edgefield/ for the field school, or

http://www.anthro.illinois.edu/faculty/cfennell/index.html for Dr. Fennell

  Old Edgefield Pottery, Pottery