Episode 5: Archaeology at the Sharrow Site

The Sharrow and Brigham Archaeological Preserves are part of the Sebec-Piscataquis River Confluence Prehistoric Archeological District in central Maine. The archaeology performed at these sites has revealed important evidence of prehistoric culture dating from about 10,000 to 4,000 years ago, including the oldest evidence of squash cultivation in the northeastern United States. The Archaeological Conservancy acquired these sites in 1999 from the previous owners of the parcels, Mike Brigham and Olga Sharrow, who sold them so they would be protected in perpetuity.

In fall of 2021, archaeological testing was performed by the Maine Historic Preservation Commission ahead of much-needed bridge improvements across the Piscataquis River. Join us behind the scenes during the excavations at the Sharrow Site and learn more about the culture, technology, and subsistence strategies of the people who lived in this region thousands of years ago.

Featuring:

• Kelley Berliner, Eastern Regional Director of The Archaeological Conservancy
• John Mosher, Field Crew Chief with the Maine Historic Preservation Commission
• Arthur Spiess, Senior Archaeologist with the Maine Historic Preservation Commission

Runtime: 23 minutes 44 seconds (Closed Captions in English)

Name

Sharrow and Brigham Archaeological Preserves

Location

Central Maine