Initial removal of the wind blown overburden was slow and difficult. Three days were spent doing this:
And this:
It was ultimately arranged to bring in this nimble and handy machine:
Using the 2.5 yard bucket and flexibility, the sand came out much quicker.
Due to its weight, machine work had to cease prior to exposing the cultural levels. However, much time and tedium was saved by the mechanical aide.
Several days worth of shoveling and wheelbarrow pushing was saved. Ultimately, the cover plastic from 1969-1970 was revealed in several places. Wall-stepping and bracing has commenced.
While the driver was excavating Isequilla’s Pit, the students were given an introduction to archaeological surveying techniques. Keeping a line while looking for artifacts on the surface doesn’t come naturally to everyone so much practice is needed.
