Join archaeologists in excavating a circa 1830s-1930s Black homestead at Jefferson Patterson Park and Museum. See what it is like to be an archaeologist and excavate an actual site through our Public Archaeology Program. You can help dig and screen for artifacts in the field or wash objects with archaeologists from the Maryland Archaeological Conservation Lab. It’s a fun way for the whole family to learn about the past. Who knows what great discoveries await you?

Volunteers of all ages are welcome; ages 15 and under require a parent or guardian to stay with their child. The participants help excavate the site, screen for artifacts, and learn some basics about recording a site. 

If the weather is rainy on a public archaeology day, participants wash artifacts dug on previous field days. Bring appropriate clothes for getting a little dirty and pack a lunch if you register for both morning and afternoon sessions! In the event of rain, all activities will take place in an indoor space to work with artifacts.