Archaeology Dig in Rockcliffe Park
Be part of an archaeological dig on July 16, 17 and/or 18 
Are you interested in local history, do you love spending time outdoors, or do you simply like to roll up your sleeves and get your hands dirty? If any of these appeal to you, Rockcliffe Park Residents Association, Lindenlea Community Association and the NCC invite you to participate in an archaeological initiative in Rockcliffe Park on Tuesday July 16, Wednesday 17th and Thursday 18th.
NCC archaeologist, Ian Badgley, and his team will guide us in exploring two sites. One site, believed to be on a portage route between the Rideau and Ottawa Rivers, has revealed Indigenous artifacts from about 5000 years ago! The other site, where a winter Tea House stood during the early to mid 1900s, could turn up discoveries of a more recent nature.
This is a free event with the equipment and expertise provided by the NCC. The sites will be open from 8 am until 7 pm and registering before hand is not required; however, if possible, we ask that you sign up here so that we can get a sense of the participant numbers. You do not have to commit to the full time slot, and you can sign up for as many time slots as you wish. You are also welcome to spectate if digging in the dirt is not for you. Providing your contact information will allow us to notify you of last-minute changes due to weather or other reasons. Meet at the Rockcliffe Pavilion (just off the Parkway) for onsite registration and directions to the sites.
Ages 10 and up are recommended for the main sites; a “spontaneous” site geared towards younger explorers will also be provided. You will need to be able to navigate some trails with slight elevation changes to access the sites. Please wear long pants and sturdy footwear. Bring work gloves, bug spray, sun protection, hats, water and snacks. Information on ticks can be found here.
The NCC partners with the communities of Kitigan Zibi Anishinabeg and Pikwàkanagàn for the joint management of archaeological resources. An opening ceremony will be held at the start of the dig.
To find out more information and to register for this event go to https://wedigrp.eventbrite.ca