2004 TAS Field School in Menard
Nearly 450 participants attended this year's Field School in
Menard. They were treated to some outstanding archeology, both at the
Presidio San Saba and at the survey site at the Taylor ranch. More than 40
2x2 units were opened at the Presidio. Much additional information was
gained about the history and architecture of the site, and Dr. Tamra Walter
remarked that she was inundated with artifacts from the Field School. The
survey crew, under the leadership of Karl Kibler and Eric Schroeder, increased
the number of recorded sites in Menard County from 32 to 52. A crew led by
Elton Prewitt and under the direction of John Arnn, tested extensive Toyah
component site at the Taylor ranch.
Probably no other field schools have received the kind of
community support than has been provided by Menard in the last two years.
This year's support may have exceeded that provided in 2003. Among the
amenities were a luncheon on Sunday with entertainment, tours in the afternoons,
canoes for use, and the "Song of Silver" for those who stayed Friday night.
Coffee and refreshments were provided at a hospitality tent at the Presidio.
In addition there was much behind-the-scenes support from the community.
As a result, the TAS Board approved a $1000 donation the Presidio de San Saba
Restoration Corporation.
There was a large and enthusiastic youth group this year, ably
taken care of by Doug Boyd and Neal Stilley. The kids not only enjoyed the
archeological activities, but the San Saba River was always the scene of
afternoon swimming.
Lastly, when did we last have a field school without rain?
Not only did we not have rain, but most nights were fairly cool and most
mornings provided some cloud cover and reasonable temperatures. All of
which helped make the 2004 Field School a very successful experience.
Presidio San Saba
Successful Investigation of the Janee Site
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Ongoing excavations in Area B
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The lab kept busy with many artifacts
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Outstanding group of youth
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Looks like the south wall
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A rare discovery: fabric that survived
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Everyone hard at work
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A large portion of a majolica plate is recorded in place
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A view of Bob Burleson's crew on the last day
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Doug Boyd explains the site to a youth tour
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Working hard
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An example of bone, bone, and more bone
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Neal Stilley instructing in the use of an atlatl
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A beautiful bone crucifix discovered by Bryan Jameson's crew
on the last day
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