Above, archaeologist John Kraft, a Lenape expert, explains various aspects of Lenape life and the kinds of artifacts they left behind that one might find at known American Indian sites such as the Black Creek Site. Recently, as part of our Education Program, the Vernon Township Historical Society conducted an archaeology study at Black Creek. The study was very successful. Led by archaeologist Dr. Cara Blume of Delaware, more than 50 township and county residents participated in the two-day event, including archaeologists John Kraft and Glenn Wershing. The Society did the study in order to fill in a trench the Township of Vernon had created across the site when it wanted to build ball fields there before the site was preserved. All of the participants and students learned a great deal about archaeology from the professionals. All artifacts recovered will be turned over to the New Jersey State Museum. Below are some photos of the two-day event.
Black Creek Archaeology Study
Dr. Blume instructs the group.
Everyone eagerly listens to Dr. Blume.
Glenn Wershing assists in the study.
Archaeologist John Kraft instructs the group.
John Kraft with his team
People busy at work
A perfect projectile point is unearthed.
Dr. Blume holds the projectile point.
Dr. Blume shows the discovery to the group.
The children are in awe of what is found.
John Kraft and his group
Historian Ron Dupont knows what he’s doing.
Children and adults alike were fascinated.
A group busy at work
Elaine Miranda leads a group.
Some brought their own sifters.
Maggie Kolicko and John Miranda are sifting soil.
Children watch their dad sift through the screen.