2021 Public Archaeology Days at the Olson Site July 30 to August 2

Brandon University archaeologist Dr. Mary Malainey and the Manitoba Archaeological Society invite you to visit us at the Olson site. 

The site is located about 15 km south of Melita, just west of Highway 83 in the Pierson Wildlife Management Area. Site excavations will be taking place in the Gainsborough Creek valley. The slope down to the site is quite steep but you will not have to walk down. We will be discussing the site and showing you artifacts at the valley crest. If you want to walk down, we will be able to show you the site up close. You will also have the opportunity to work with professional archaeologists and participate in the excavations. 

Our 2021 Public Archaeology Day site tours will be held from July 30 to August 2, at 10 a.m. and 12 noon. 

Events will conform to group size restrictions and physical distancing protocols.

Weather permitting, public archaeology activities will be held on July 30, 31, Aug 1 and 2. Meet us in the grassy plain west of Highway 83 (about 500 m north of the junction with 10N) on those days at either 10 a.m. or 12 noon. Presentations and site tours will be given, and interested individuals will have the opportunity to help professional archaeologists excavate the site. 

For background on the Project: 

https://www.newsoptimist.ca/news/manitoba-ancient-hoes-point-to-indigenous-gardeners-1.24172687

https://www.smithsonianmag.com/smart-news/gardening-hoes-made-bison-scapulae-found-canada-180975372/

https://www.portageonline.com/local/bu-s-invite-to-melita-dig-site-dating-back-200-years

https://sciencewriters.ca/blog/9339290