30 June, 2001

We worked for a few hours today. We started in on North Trench 079 on the mound. The area was sectioned off into 1 square meter blocks. Each unit is separated in quads. This is important because we have to identify where and what we find while excavating. Each area is mapped and labeled. Everything that is done has to be labeled with specific information being noted. We have to write down each area we work on, for example, I worked on section S1E4. I found my first bone, whale, I think. It is characterized into categories: lithics (slate, rock, worked rock), bone, wood, artifact, ceramic, and other. The entire area is set on a datum (a reference point to measure). It is vital everyone works off of the datum. I found bone, wood, 2 pieces of flint, and maybe one artifact. I found two teeth, one walrus and one seal. The walrus looked to have been worked on. The teeth are labeled as bones. Back at the Dome (home) we set up a table to partially dry out the specimens. They will fall apart pretty easily having been in the ground for hundreds of years. We have to divide all specimens into groups, making sure where we dug is written down and recorded. This is VITAL, being accurate in the data collecting. At a later date, everything has to be checked and catalogued. This is important because all materials will be going to a lab for analysis. I like this procedure, it leaves little room for error. It is necessary for any science to be as exact with the data collecting as possible. The more data collecting, the better the collecting, the more accurate the results will be.

Amy and Margie are starting in on 026S

The gang after a hard day ready to eat, even if it is a chicken in a can

I am busy digging with John, Margie, Amy, and Maria

I am working with Julie on 026.