Mechanical excavation of the site has finished, leaving behind a site that suddenly looks a lot larger than it did when it was safely covered with turf. Rain over the weekend has brought out the site nicely, showing up distinct deposits (former gravelled surfaces, capping demolition layers, modern service trenches) and some sandstone and brick footings peeking through. It has not flooded us yet, but that is only a matter of time.
The yellow shovel in action
The eagle-eyed will have noticed a strange circular sandstone feature in the middle of the site. This is located in as former yard area (from 1856). We’re not sure what it is: a crane base, a casting mould, an old millstone from the former flour mill and granary, a keyhole to the Hellmouth. We’ll post some better pictures at some stage.
The site, ready for eight glorious months
We’ll now be busily setting up the site before we get stuck in with digging. This involves setting up the survey control / getting frustrated because we cannot remember how to set up survey control, kitting out the nearby lab and getting the interpretation signs established.
Thanks to the Port Arthur crew for their help: Gareath, Ted, Andy, Pete, Russell and Bobby.
This is very cool!
You know what? I agree.
This is fascinating and I appreciate you sharing photos, please keep them coming. I studied the forensic archaeology unit at UNE a couple of years ago and loved it. I hope to make it to Port Arthur in the coming months as I haven’t been before. Thanks, Lisa
Hi Lisa. Ah yes, bones. Not my area of expertise – but a fascinating line of study. Hope you make it to PA. We’ll be here.
Well done Ricardo … very impressive blog. You a star …
Thanks Dad. I learnt from the best