Deep beneath the wild grasses of Pointe-aux-Vieux in Malpeque Bay, the Provincial Archaeologist will spend the next ten days searching for evidence of an early 18th century Acadian settlement, says Minister Responsible for Archaeology Carolyn Bertram.
“Archaeology helps us to travel back into time to get valuable information about the human settlements which existed centuries ago,” said Minister Bertram. “Pointe-aux-Vieux is a site rich with history, and this archaeological dig will help us tell the story of the pre-deportation Acadian community who resided here between 1728 and 1758.”
Minister Bertram joined Provincial Archaeologist Dr. Helen Kristmanson and local MLAs Paula Biggar and Sonny Gallant today at the excavation site. Armed with trowels, brushes and dustpans, Kristmanson and her crew will spend the next ten days searching for evidence to piece together the history of the area.
The site of Pointe-aux-Vieux has been of archaeological interest since bones – believed to be human – were discovered nearby in 2001. These bones were confirmed to be faunal and associated with an Acadian occupation. After monitoring the shoreline for several years and observing the damaging effects of extensive coastal erosion, Kristmanson conducted an archaeological test at the Acadian farm site in spring 2009. Excavations revealed a pattern of field stones that formed part of a structural foundation and an associated fireplace or oven which contained charcoal, animal bones, old shell and other debris. In addition, a whole range of other artifacts were discovered, including the following: a thimble, gun flints, clay smoking pipes, nails, spikes, a fancy shoe buckle, ornate beads, French pottery and other tableware.
It is anticipated that the current excavation will further reveal the extent and orientation of the foundation. In addition, by opening up new areas of excavation, the team hopes to identify new features and recover further artifacts and information that will add to our understanding of this pre-deportation community.
“Our hope is that this archaeological dig will give us a better understanding of our Island’s Acadian heritage and insight into the day-to-day life of these settlers in Malpeque Bay,” said Minister Bertram.
Dr. Kristmanson and her crew will be working on the site until June 25. For more information on the Pointe-aux-Vieux project or the office of the Provincial Archaeologist visit www.gov.pe.ca/health/archaeology.