The archaeological process involves a number of steps. The scientific findings of the process are made widely available through specialized publications, works for the general public, exhibitions, etc.

 

Any historical archaeology project begins with an analysis of available information on the chosen site. Land grants and deeds of sale, document collections, maps and plans, official correspondence of the colony, travel journals and private correspondence can provide details making it possible to precisely delimit a historic site and identify the different phases in its past.

 

Since early layers of archaeological remains have not always survived the years untouched, the next step is to determine where exactly the remains are and whether they have been disturbed by more recent construction. Coring—removing a sample section of soil—gives an idea of the accumulated soil and can also help locate the remains. Exploratory excavation in test pits then helps to better understand the sequence of the historical deposits.

 

The dig site is divided horizontally and vertically into squares identified by position, depth and year of the dig. As soon as one layer has been thoroughly explored, the photographs and drawings of the square, depth measurements and the description of operations and discoveries must all be filed. Any objects found are sent to the laboratory for further processing.

 

Once they have been cleaned, the artifacts are numbered to show the exact spot where they were found. Then they are identified by material and function. A system developed by archaeologists can be used to classify most of them into many categories and subcategories. Artifacts are stored according to these same rules and may be used for research or exhibition purposes. Methodology.

 

The inventory of the objects found, put together with a software program, makes it possible to make connections between types of objects and the archaeological layers. The chronological succession of layers and the popularity of certain objects at specific times give valuable clues to the chronology of a site. The objects tell about human activities, so in their reports archaeologists can offer interpretations of each layer by locating it in time.

 

Comparing the chronological history of a site and the archival information on the site sometimes leads to surprises and sparks new research to gain a better understanding of the site. After all, the purpose of archaeology is to combine the knowledge gained from the dig with history. It is much more than just a series of techniques.

 

It is also an archaeologist's job to share research findings with colleagues and the general public. So it was only natural that members of the public were invited to visit the dig site at 214 Place d'Youville as part of Archéo! dimanche activities on June 1, 2003. Urban archaeology, the birth and development of Montréal, artifacts, ecofacts: it was a whole day devoted to sharing scientific knowledge, led by the Field School interns themselves. See some of the highlights!