Dig Into History with Fairfield Foundation
- Learn hands-on archaeology excavation skills
- See how 3D modelling is created from drone photography
- Explore some of the regions colonial-era historic sites
Experience the thrill of re-discovering history at the Fairfield Plantation. Fairfield showcased one of Virginia’s magnificent manor houses, an architectural enigma once surrounded by 7,000 acres of tobacco fields and forestland at the heart of Gloucester County, just north of Williamsburg.
Five generations of the Burwell family lived at Fairfield, designing the landscape for their own benefit. Their story includes the lives of many enslaved Africans and African Americans, forced to labor for the Burwell's financial success.
This project is an opportunity to try your hand at archaeology enhanced by 3D technology. AiP volunteers, known as jammers, will have a full week of activities, including instruction in excavation techniques and 3D modelling, as well as excursions to intriguing historic sites.
Sunday: Meet and Greet; lodging check in.
Monday: Fairfield site tour, introduction to excavation
Tuesday - Friday: Excavation, 3D technology and excursions
Saturday: Project ends, but consider exploring Yorktown, Jamestown, Colonial Williamsburg or other sites in the area.
If you are arriving by air, pickup is provided at Newport News/Williamsburg International Airport.
Alternative airports include Norfolk International and Richmond International, both 90 minutes from Gloucester. Rental cars are available at both. No pick up available.
Drop off is available at Newport News/Williamsburg International Airport.
This workshop will involve hands-on archaeology during the Virginia summer. Summer in Gloucester can be hot and humid with daytime average highs of 32 C (90 F). We will be working both inside and outside, working in the shade of a protective cover while outside. Bring clothing that is appropriate for the weather as well as protective while working. A swimsuit will come in handy, too. Bring sunscreen, insect repellent and a water bottle. Please be conscious that safety is an important issue at any work site.
- Lodging
- Breakfasts and lunches
- Excursions
- Insurance while working at the site
- Training and materials
- Travel to Gloucester, VA
- Visa, if needed
- Dinners
Total payment must be received at least 45 days prior to the project start date.
- If your choice of session is not available, you will be notified immediately, and you may choose between enrolling in another session with places available or receiving a full refund.
- A non-refundable 50% deposit is required at the time of registration. The deposit may be applied toward attending another project only if you cancel more than 45 days prior to the project start date.
- If you cancel more than 45 days before the start of the project and have paid the fee in full, you will receive a refund of 50% of the fee. The remaining 50% is nonrefundable.
- No refund is possible within 45 days of project start or during the project.
- All payments made to Adventures in Preservation by the participant to attend a project will be refunded if Adventures in Preservation cancels the project.
- Trip cancellation insurance is highly recommended.