News Release

Join an archaeology dig near Foley

Thursday, May 7, 2009

Lisa Schauer (left) and Steve Burgstahler screen dirt near the northwest corner of the Keefe farmyard in April 2008.

ST. CLOUD, Minn. – Volunteers are invited to participate in an archaeological dig 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. May 14-16 at the Keefe farmstead north of Foley, Minn.

Activities will include excavation, mapping, screening and cataloging objects. Excavation and mapping equipment are provided.

Since 2007 volunteers, students and faculty have recovered artifacts and animal remains, providing clues about the lives of Minnesota’s early Irish settlers. 

View a photo slide show from the 2008 dig.

For more information or to volunteer, contact Mark Muñiz, at 320-308-4162. Muñiz, an assistant professor of sociology and anthropology, directs the graduate program in Cultural Resources Management Archaeology.

The May 14-16 excavation will focus on the barn and other outbuildings, as well as the farmyard area between the original log buildings. The Benton County Historical Society will provide assistance.

The Keefe farmstead was settled in the 1870s by John Keefe, a naturalized citizen born to Irish immigrant parents. Last year’s excavation, conducted by St. Cloud State students and faculty members and community volunteers, focused on the farmyard.

The dig is part of a state-wide Archaeology Week celebration (PDF), coordinated by the Office of the State Archaeologist.

The excavation is sponsored by the Department of Sociology and Anthropology and Stump Road Acres, LLC.

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