Buffalo State Day at Old Fort Niagara: June 17
The Anthropology Department will host a Buffalo State Day celebration, Wednesday, June 17, from 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m., at Old Fort Niagara in Youngstown, New York.
Guests will observe students from the 2015 Buffalo State Archaeological Field School as they excavate a portion of a War of 1812 officers’ barracks. Visitors will also tour the French Castle and explore the fort's spacious grounds. Historical demonstrations run from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Buffalo State students, anthropology alumni, faculty, staff, and their families can visit free of charge with a valid Buffalo State ID card.
Buffalo State students complete work under the direction of Susan Maguire, assistant professor of anthropology, who is continuing her work at the fort.
“I’m interested in the intersection between archaeology and history,” said Maguire during the 2013 dig at the fort.
This season's research focuses on trade between the French, British, and Native Americans during the mid-to-late eighteenth century. Students learn how to map, establish excavation units, and examine a historic site. “Being part of the dig and doing hands-on work brings out different skills than classroom work,” said Maguire. “You can see the light bulbs go on as students see the link between textbooks, research, and field work.”
Students, faculty, and staff must present their Buffalo State ID at the fort entrance for free admission; anthropology alumni must RSVP to attend (deadline is Tuesday, June 16, at noon).