Daily log 2. 20. 05

Today was our very first day of fieldwork! All of the volunteers and scientists met downstairs for breakfast at 7 a.m. sharp and talked about what we all hoped to expect when we arrived at Ban Non Wat. After breakfast, the team piled onto two different trucks and began the 40-minute journey to the archeological site.

When we first arrived Charles, the Principal Investigator, gave us a brief tour of the excavation area and the surrounding areas around the site. Once our introduction was over with, we each were given tasks to complete over the next few working days. My task was to uncover an area around a series of broken pots, which might be the location of a burial. I was so excited to possibly uncover a neo-lithic skeleton, that I excitedly sifted away the dirt and minerals that surrounded the pots.

It is proven that pots are an indication of a possible burial site, because they were laid at the head and feet of the body when it was laid to rest as offerings to the dead. The area I was digging through was butted up right against the excavation site walls, so it is very possible that the skeleton would not be found, because it lay deep in the walls of the site. If I were to stumble upon the remains of a skeleton, I would have to dig carefully around the bones and try to clear away as much sediment from the remains as possible. Then the bones would be wiped down with water and photographed for documentation. Before the bones would be lifted from the site, a diagram of the placement of the bones would be constructed on paper, which could be used later for educational purposes and general reference.

Unfortunately, I did not find remains on my first day but I did have a wonderful time uncovering more and more pieces of 3,500-year-old pottery. I worked very slowly which is why I might not have uncovered as much ground as I should have, but I was being very careful not to destroy any of the artifacts.

Four o’clock came very quickly and it was time to board the truck and make the journey back to the Inn. Dinner was much appreciated by everyone who was so exhausted from the sun and shortly afterwards everyone departed to his or her rooms.

The first day of work proved to be very exciting and I enjoyed working in an area that has been basically untouched before our arrival. I can only hope that tomorrow I will uncover that 3,500 year-old skeleton and if not tomorrow, I will keep carefully digging until I find one!

Peace!
Jamie