Linn Ranch Archaeology Camp: May 2 – 8, 2016

Have you ever wanted to work on a real archaeological excavation? Now’s your chance!

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New Venture for Linn Canyon Ranch and JHHSM:

Staff archaeologists Rebecca Sgouros and Matt Stirn have been excavating a 10,000 year old prehistoric campsite on Linn Canyon Ranch since 2014. The ranch, which is a family owned business, serves as a base for horseback riding and backcountry adventures in the Teton Valley and Range. This archaeological site is a community project and students from Jackson Hole Middle School and the Teton Literacy Center’s Summer Archaeology Camp have participated throughout the research. Thanks to the great success of these educational programs, the Linns, Matt, and Rebecca have decided to combine their skills and offer a week long Archaeology Camp available to all ages– the perfect combination of traditional Western vacation and historical exploration!

20141023_124934IMG_1211Participate in Local Archaeology, Learn the History of the Past

Archaeologists Matt and Rebecca will teach you about the rich cultural history of the area, the basics of archaeological excavation, and the importance of archaeological study. In addition to excavation, hands-on activities like making and throwing atlatls, learning to flint knap, making pottery and carving soapstone; field trips to learn about local edible and stone resources; and evening lectures on archaeological research in the High Tetons will round out the week. This camp is available to all ages (children under 12 must be accompanied by an adult) and is designed as a 7-day program. While single or multi-day participation can be accommodated, we strongly encourage you to sign up for the entire week.

Lunch, lemonade, and cookie breaks are included in the camp. Gourmet breakfasts and dinners are also offered at supplemental cost. A detailed schedule of the week and packing list will be available by mid-April.

DSCF1142Preserving Archaeology through Education:

The artifacts from this site have been collected from the surface or through professional excavation. They are the property of the Linn Family and are never sold. The artifacts remain on the ranch so that they can be preserved and used to teach students and visitors about the area’s rich cultural history. Thanks to the entire Linn Family for their generosity in sharing their ranch and this amazing archaeological site with the community. If it was not for their interest in cultural preservation and desire to study their site slowly and scientifically, this unique opportunity would not exist.

mattsphone 860“WOW! How do I sign up?”

There is a maximum of 18 spaces available per day. The cost per day (includes lunch and participation in all activities) is: $120. Spots are available on a first-come first-serve basis and can be secured by a 25% non-refundable deposit. The remaining balance is due at the start of the session. Checks can be made payable to: Linn Canyon Ranch. For more information (including the complete information packet) please visit www.jacksonholehistory.org. To reserve your spot please contact Rebecca at 307-733-2414 or [email protected].

Looking for someplace idyllic to stay while participating in the project of your dreams?

Available lodging on the ranch includes a beautiful cabin and two luxury “glamping” tents (please contact Linn Canyon Ranch for reservations). A list of local campgrounds, motels, and inns is also available.

» Download Info Packet [PDF]