Archaeological Excavation at Schlitz Audubon

Schlitz Audubon will host a four-day archaeological excavation directed by Dr. David Pacifico, Assistant Professor of Art History and Director of the Emile H. Mathis Art Gallery and UWM Art Collection at UW-Milwaukee. This is the final phase of a pilot program in community-based participatory research, which is a collaboration between the Milwaukee Community Archaeology Project and the Center. The project explores everyday life, residential activities, and production practices among early European immigrants to the Milwaukee area. We will excavate in the hypothetical mixed midden/work area behind the former barn of the Cappon/de Swarte farmstead, which was in use in the mid- to late-19th century. The Cappons and de Swartes emigrated to the area in the mid-19th century during a period of famine, economic downturn, and religious-political persecution in Holland.

Participants are invited to assist in the excavation by registering for four-hour shifts.

The public is also invited to take drop-in, guided hikes to view the excavation site. These hikes, lead by Schlitz Audubon staff, will take place at 10:00am and 2:00pm on each of the four project days (November 8-11).