Learning, credit, internship, and fun are all reasons for participating in the Archeology Field program at Montpelier, the home of U.S. President James Madison and Dolly Madison in Orange, Virginia.
In July, seven BRVGS students excavated, cleaned, catalogued, and analyzed artifacts from the historic property. Participants have discovered knives and other tools at the site of old slave quarters.
“It was an awesome experience,” said student Allan Horn. “The staff was friendly and welcoming, and the accommodations were comfortable. I learned so much, and am glad that I was able to be a part of the LEARN Archaeology program.”
This is the 2nd year BRVGS has been involved in the week-long residential on-site program. Students from Goochland, Greene, Nelson, and Orange counties took advantage of the opportunity offered through BRVGS, Montpelier, and James Madison University. During their field experience, students are part of the Montpelier research team. They may take the program for college credit, BRVGS Senior Internship placement, and/or personal discovery. Participants engage in excavation work, lab work, lectures, and tours of the mansion and archaeological sites on the property.
Horn valued his experience, and said, “I greatly appreciate that the BRVGS program covered the cost, and I would highly recommend this opportunity to other students.”
To learn more, click here for the most recent newsletter from the Montpelier Archaeology Department.