Society Activities

2009 TAS Field School

June 13–20, 2009
OCHILTREE COUNTY, TEXAS

A RETURN TO OCHILTREE COUNTY
By Dempsey Malaney

Last year’s Field School was a big success and the coming 2009 Field School promises to be even better.  Mr. Harold Courson and his family have invited TAS back for a second year in the Texas Panhandle to finish up some important Archeological investigations to be directed by Dr. Scott Brosowske.

Again this year, Mr. Courson will treat attendees with two catered dinners with live entertainment.  The first will be on Saturday, June 13, and then we will conclude the field school on Friday, June 19th, with a dinner and entertainment by a well known band.  Please plan on staying Friday night for this memorable dinner with special entertainment.  For the other days in camp, our outstanding field school cooks will again be with us, serving up their excellent breakfasts and dinners.

Campsite TAS 2008

Dempsey Malaney will serve as camp boss this year after getting initiated last year.  Our campground will be at picturesque Wolf Creek Park and Lake Fryer, in Ochiltree County about 15 miles from Perryton.  Large elm and cottonwood trees at the campsite promise an enjoyable camping experience.  Bath houses and restrooms will be available nearby.  There are also 54 RV hookups with water and 30amp electricity on the south side of the park where TAS will be located.  There are no reservations, it will be first come first served.  We had no problems last year and don’t anticipate any this year.  Besides the camping, the park and lake also offer fishing, swimming, boating, and there are playgrounds as well as hiking and jogging trails.  Camping fees will be waived at the campground for both the North and South side of the lake.  Please note that the park does not allow glass containers, so leave them at home.  We are also cautioned to bring a light jacket and rain gear as it sometimes can get cool at night and wet if it rains (makes for great sleeping).  There is a small store at Lake Fryer which will be convenient to participants.  The proprietor that was there last year has left and a new one has not been appointed by the commissioners.

Weather in June can be at its best or its worst with occasional thunderstorms during this time of year.  Last year we had two storms.  If you can bring a battery powered weather radio from home it would be advisable to keep up with the latest weather.  A briefing about the weather will be presented at the initial meeting in Camp.

We would like to bring your attention to the rule that no pets of any kind will be allowed on the south side of the lake in the TAS campground.  For those that can’t be without their pets, they will have to camp on the north side of the lake.  When visiting the campground and TAS Headquarters you will have to leave your pets on the north side.  This will accommodate everyone and stay within the TAS guidelines.

Campsite in Wolf Creek Park on Lake Fryer.

Another view of Lake Fryer.

Perryton is only seven miles south of the Oklahoma state line and it is the northernmost county seat in Texas.  It has one of the best small town museums within a 400 mile radius and is well worth visiting.  There are several motels in the city as well as some fine restaurants.  Perryton Chamber of Commerce may be contacted at 806-435-6575, http://perryton.org/.  The chamber will mail out packets upon request and will be available at registration in the camp.  Additional details will be in the Spring TAS newsletter.  And this year please remember to sign and send in the Courson Family release form with your registration.

Register for the 2009 Field School online or download a PDF to complete and mail in.