How to carry out an archaeological excavation in your own backyard

Archaeological excavations are often associated with huge sites or ancient ruins, but did you know that you can also carry out an excavation in your own backyard? This can be an exciting and educational experience, as it allows you to uncover the history of your property and the people who once lived there. However, it's important to do your research and prepare thoroughly before embarking on an excavation project. Here are some steps to follow to ensure a successful excavation in your own backyard. Step 1: Research your property Before starting your excavation, it's important to research the history of your property. You can start by checking old maps, land surveys, and historical records to find out who owned the land before you and what buildings might have existed there. You can also talk to long-time residents in the area to gather information about the area's past. This research will help guide your excavation and give you an idea of what you might find. Step 2: Choose a site Once you've done your research, you can choose a site to excavate. Look for areas that seem promising based on the historical records or what you know about the area's past. For example, if you have access to old photographs, you might look for areas where buildings used to stand, or for areas where people tended to congregate, such as near water sources or old roads. Choose a site that's relatively flat and easy to work with, and make sure you have permission from the property owner before starting your excavation. Step 3: Gather your tools To carry out an excavation in your own backyard, you'll need some basic tools. You'll need a trowel, a shovel, a bucket, a mesh screen, and a brush. You might also need a pickaxe, depending on the soil conditions. It's a good idea to wear gloves and safety glasses to protect your hands and eyes while working. Step 4: Excavate the site Now it's time to start digging! Begin by removing the top layer of soil using your shovel, and then use your trowel to carefully scrape away the next layer. Keep doing this until you reach the depth where you think you might find artifacts. As you dig, be sure to keep a record of where each layer of soil was removed, as this can help you reconstruct the site later. You should also be careful not to damage any artifacts as you dig. If you find any artifacts or bones, carefully remove them with your trowel and place them in your bucket. Step 5: Screen the soil After you've removed the soil, it's a good idea to screen it to find any smaller artifacts that might have been missed. To do this, place the soil on your mesh screen and use your brush to sift through it. This should help you find any small artifacts or bones that were missed during the initial excavation. Step 6: Analyze the artifacts Once you've finished excavating and screening the soil, it's time to analyze the artifacts you've found. This might involve measuring and cataloguing each item, or it might involve bringing them to a professional archaeologist for analysis. Be sure to record all of your findings carefully, including the location where each artifact was found. In conclusion, carrying out an archaeological excavation in your own backyard can be an exciting and educational experience. However, it's important to do your research and prepare carefully to ensure a successful excavation. By following these steps and taking the time to analyze your findings, you can uncover the hidden history of your property and gain a greater appreciation for the people who once lived there.