This fall, things are looking down at Keckly Burwell—underground, that is!On November 21–22, our staff (with help from friends at the UNC Department of Anthropology) will conduct a truly historic archaeological survey of the Keckly Burwell property using ground-penetrating radar. The public is invited to attend and participate!But first, stop by Keckly Burwell on October 3 for a special presentation from UNC archaeologists. Learn about their past work and what to expect in November.Can you dig it?
Unearthed: Community Poke N' Probe + Kickoff Presentation is a free educational event where families can learn about an upcoming archaeological survey of the historic Elizabeth Keckly Center grounds. UNC archaeologists will share how they search for buried history and explain how the public can help with the actual radar survey happening later this fall. This kickoff presentation is best suited for school-aged children who can sit through a short presentation about science and history. The event is entirely free to attend, and you can park in the gravel lot at the Burwell School Historic Site or along the street in downtown Hillsborough. Since this is an introductory talk, you do not need to bring any tools or digging gear yet. It is a smart weekend pick because it connects local North Carolina history with real-world science in a way that is easy for kids to understand. Plus, it sets your family up to participate in the actual hands-on radar survey in November.
This kickoff event is best for elementary and middle school students who can engage with a presentation by university archaeologists. Younger siblings are welcome, but the content is geared toward older kids.
Do we need to bring our own digging tools?
No tools are needed for this October kickoff. This session is an educational presentation to explain the upcoming November survey and show families how the technology works.
