Secrets remaining from North Carolina's most active role in the French and Indian War will be sought during an archaeological excavation at Fort Dobbs State Historic Site. For the first time in years, Deputy State Archaeologist John Mintz and Shawn Patch of New South Associates will lead research at the site. The public is invited to observe the team at work July 13, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
The War for Empire between England and France spilled over into the New World in the French and Indian War, also known as the Seven Years' War. North Carolina's most active involvement was at Fort Dobbs on what was the western frontier near present-day Statesville. The project will shed more light on the 1760 Cherokee attack and on life at the military post, which housed about 50 soldiers for several years.
Ground penetrating radar and metal detectors will be used to unearth historical information. Visitors will learn about the archaeological process at the free program, and also can view artifacts collected in previous digs now at the visitor center.
For additional information, please call (704) 873-5882. Fort Dobbs is within the Division of State Historic Sites in the N.C. Department of Natural and Cultural Resources.
About Fort Dobbs
Fort Dobbs State Historic Site's mission is to preserve and interpret the history of Fort Dobbs and North Carolina's role in the French and Indian War. It is open Tuesday-Saturday, 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Special events and living history weekends are offered throughout the year. It is part of the Division of N.C. State Historic Sites within the N.C. Department of Natural and Cultural Resources.