In Scandanavia, the years between about 800 and 1100 AD are shrouded in mystery. This period, which saw the flowering of culture known to the world as "Viking," was also the time during which Europe emerged from historical darkness into the light of the High Middle Ages. The question for historians and archaeologists is, what have the two to do with each other? Did Scandinavian raiders, settlers, explorers and artists "Viking-ize" Europe or did traders, diplomats and Christian missionaries "European-ize" Scandanavia? Or was it a little of both? In the Viking dig, students will have the opportunity to discover what a site from Romo (an island off the coast of Southwestern Denmark, close to the border of non-Norse Europe) can tell us about the Vikings in particular and the birth of modern Europe in general. We will refer to history, skaldic poetry and epics, and excavate a mysterious house site on the North Sea (ie West) side of the island. Excavators will use the same tools archaeologists use in the field, but the main activity will take place in their heads as they learn how to "see" how a story emerges from the artifacts in their contexts. What will you find? Will you be able to figure it out? Inquiring minds want to know!
The dig is safe, fun and realistic to an absurd degree. The artifacts alone are stunning, their context beyond belief. But the real product is the ability of the campers to use their tools and minds in a coherent, purposeful way to discover the most likely stories that account for what they find. Elements of science, logic, geography, culture, history and (of course!) archaeology keep the proceedings humming. Make the week of August 17-21, 2026, especially memorable with this dig opportunity!
Camp Information
- Campers should arrive dressed for the weather, with appropriate footwear and a cap or hat.
- Sunblock and kid-friendly bug dope may also be needed.
- All campers should pack a hearty lunch, labeled drink and a snack.
- Space is limited; please sign up early if you wish to have your children attend.
- Head Instructor: Geoffrey Purcell
- Camp will be held at the Western Turnpike Golf Course Pavilion - turn into the golf course entrance at 2350 Western Ave and follow the entrance road. The pavilion is located just before the road curves to the right - there will be signs!
Instructor's Experience
- Geof Purcell is a professional archaeologist who found his true vocation teaching children.
- He has studied since the mid 1970s in California (BA), Arizona (MA) and New York (unfinished PhD) and has traveled the world and excavated across the USA as well as in Egypt, Mexico, Serbia, Greece and Scotland.
- He had been teaching children as part of his business, The Archaeological Perspective, since the early 90s.