14 August 2008 One Last Big Effort

ArchaeologistsScientists who study past human life and culture by the recovery and examination of remaining material evidence, such as graves, buildings, tools, and pottery. talk about the "48 Rule”. This rule states that significant objects or artifacts will be discovered during the last 2 days of the project. We were close today, significant pieces kept showing up in the burial that I have been working on for the last 3 days. Christine and Michael kept things moving along, unfortunately Dave had left so he missed all the action today. The time constraints kept me from wandering far for photo opportunities. The time also kept us out at NuvukThe Iñupiaq name for Point Barrow and the people who lived there. until 7:30PM, by the time everyone was home and gear was put away, it was 9PM. Another late day.

So, tonight’s journal is going to be a quick one. In many ways, the sun is setting on the Barrow scene. Tomorrow is a clean-up day in the field. Saturday is flight day for just everyone.

The close of the different features or areas is sad, there is so much work and effort in them. I looked at the giant empty holes and something is missing. Fortunately, all the important material is in the lab or in the big cooler ready for further analysis. That doesn’t change the vacant look.

The Chukchi Sea and Beaufort SeaThe Beaufort Sea lies to the north of Alaska and the Yukon and Northwest Territories., both part of the Arctic Ocean have been constant influences on people, animals, the weather, and our work. I look forward to a two more days out by the water.