Archaeology Day at Mouns Jones, Can You Dig It?

Blogger's Note: The following was provided by the Historic Preservation Trust of Berks County

On Saturday, Sept. 22, the John Shrader Chapter 21 Pennsylvania Archaeological Society invites the public to celebrate International Archaeology Day at the Mouns Jones House, oldest house in Berks County. 

The free program will be held from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. with a rain date of Sep. 29.

Members of the public may tour the Mouns Jones Site in Morlatton Village located at 31 Old Philadelphia Pike, Douglassville, and participate in hands on archaeology. 

Archaeologists will demonstrate sifting of dirt saved from the newly constructed handicapped sidewalks. This sifting could reveal colonial American artifacts. Those planning on participating should be prepared to get dirty and wear suitable clothing, bring gloves and wear closed-toe shoes.

The John Shrader Chapter 21 of the Society of Pennsylvania Archaeology has been working at the Mouns Jones Site for seven years. 

Established in 1929, the Society of Pennsylvania Archaeology is dedicated to promoting the study of the prehistoric and historic archaeological resources of Pennsylvania and neighboring states; encouraging scientific research while discouraging exploration which is unscientific or irresponsible in intent or practice; promoting the conservation of archaeological sites, artifacts, and information; encouraging the establishment and maintenance of sources of archaeological information such as museums, societies, and educational programs; promoting the dissemination of archaeological knowledge by means of publications and forums; and fostering the exchange of information between professional and avocational archaeologists.

Morlatton Village is owned and operated by the non-profit Historic Preservation Trust of Berks County. The village represents pieces of a Swedish settlement begun in the early 1700’s, when Berks County was still the frontier. 

 Structures constructed slightly later in the 1760’s also comprise the village. For more information check http://www.historicpreservationtrust.org/

Digging Into 300 Years of History at Mouns Jones

The buildings on the Mouns Jones plantation are the oldest in Berks County.

Blogger's Note: The following was provided by the Pennsylvania Society for Archaeology,

The John Shrader Chapter 21 of the Pennsylvania Society for Archaeology invites the public to a celebration on Saturday, Oct. 15 of International Archaeology Day at the Mouns Jones House on Old Philadelphia Pike.

It coincides with the 300th Anniversary Celebration of the Mouns Jones House.

The program will feature live excavations at the Mouns Jones House along with talks and walks. The talks will illustrate the influences of the colonizing Swedes and Leni Lenape indigenous peoples.

The free program will begin at 10 a.m.

The John Shrader Chapter 21 of the PSA is working in partnership with the Historic Preservation Trust of Berks County in the investigation of the Mouns Jones property, the oldest standing building in Berks County.

This year marks the fifth year of the totally volunteer project. Montgomery County Community College archaeology program is also assisting with the work.