Page 128 - The Hunt - Spring 2021

VINTAGE
outside Odessa, Del. “We’ve just gotten started on Coleman Farm,” De Cunzo says.
The historical preserve is located along the state’s north-south route, and also where cross- peninsula travel from the Delaware Bay to Chesapeake Bay took place. “We’re trying to understand the larger property,” she says.
One excavation involves a series of underground disturbances discovered by a machine that uses ground-penetrating radar to detect buried artifacts or artifact fields. They’ve found tobacco pipe stems, nails, red kitchen ceramic ware, brick fragments and lithics (an archeological term for artifacts made of stone).
Abandoned or buried “anomalies” may also be detected by air or even satellite. Historical documents and records can provide clues as
to what farms and other sites once looked
like and what buildings, paths or roads once existed. Much of the excavation work now being done in the state is being driven by Delaware Department of Transportation requirements for new road projects that may have the potential to
For us non-experts, there’s always the chance that we’ll stumble across a significant site
that contains multiple artifacts.
affect historic properties. Indeed, the department has its own staff of archeologists.
For us non-experts, there’s always the chance that we’ll stumble across a significant site that contains multiple artifacts. Painter Timothy Barr was curious about a large rock overhang in the woods near his home north of Reading, Pa. Was it a shelter for the Lenape people? With some preliminary digging, he found proof in artifacts left behind.
“We’re not as concerned about people collecting artifacts,” De Cunzo says, “But we are interested in first learning about the total landscape, trying to get an understanding of the larger property.”
Always ask for permission from the landowner before searching for artifacts. If
you find a potential site in the First State,
De Cunzo recommends contacting the Archeological Society of Delaware. She also notes that the Delaware Department of Natural Resources and Environmental Control hosts a hands-on anthropological activity called “Time Travelers.” Across the state line, the governing organization for sites is the Pennsylvania Historical and Museum Commission.
These days, there aren’t many farms located along streams favored by First Americans— and there’s another obstacle. “Fewer farmers are plowing these days, which turns up the arrowheads,” Kuerner says.
Visit delawarearchaeology.com, dnrec. delaware.gov and phmc.state.pa.us.
Wherewillyoubegin your best story?
For Bob and Rosey Hess, Saturday morning breakfasts, walks along the creek and special places to build forts have made Sycamore Springs a magical place to write new stories with their family.
Sycamore Springs, a 55 and over neighborhood, offers innovative community nestled into the farmland of Lancaster County. Enjoy quick access to Philadelphia, New York and Baltimore blended with the charm of country living.
Start Your Best Story at
SYCAMORESPRINGS.ORG
126
THE HUNT MAGAZINE
spring 2020
YOUR BEST STORY IS WAITING FOR YOU