Program: Highlights of Massachusetts Archaeology

July 16 @ 6:00 p.m.

Highlights of Massachusetts Archaeology
with Dr. Eric Johnson
Athol Public Library temporary location
82 Freedom Street
Tuesday, July 16
6:00 - 7:30 pm
Grand Room West

Our summer reading theme is Groundbreaking Reads!

Learn how what's underground can tell us about history in Massachusetts.

While Massachusetts may lack some of the spectacular sites of places like Egypt or Mexico, we do have an archaeological record that spans more than 10,000 years!

This illustrated lecture takes you on a tour of some Massachusetts archaeological sites with interesting stories to tell. They include the winter home of a group of hunter-gatherers, a brilliantly designed fish trap more than 4,000 years old; a site with evidence that ancient hunter-gatherers used careful burning to alter and enhance their environment; the backyard of a single mother in Colonial Boston, a tavern that served the likes of Daniel Webster and Henry David Thoreau, and the maintenance garage for an early mass-transit company.

We will see archaeologists at work in the field and the laboratory, examine the artifacts they have found, and hear the stories of the past they have pieced together from the materials that people have left behind.

* Following the talk, Dr. Johnson will have some time to look at any artifacts you may have found in your yards, on walks, etc. Bring them! *

Registration is encouraged, but not required. Please call the library at 978-249-9515.

Refreshments courtesy of the Friends of the Library & the APL is
air-conditioned!