Columbia, SC – Historic Columbia Foundation will embark upon significant archaeological survey work at the Hampton-Preston Mansion this summer and fall. The project will provide insight into the landscape usage on the property, which is one of the preeminent 19th-century sites in South Carolina’s capital city. As a catalyst for Historic Columbia Foundation’s Cultural Landscape Master Plan in the Robert Mills Historic District, the project and research is central to not only better interpreting the site but also determining what underground assets are present that need to be studied before restoration of the estate's grounds commences in the upcoming years. The four-acre estate was once home to many people -- white, planter-class elites; enslaved African-Americans, free blacks, and a host of post-war citizens, including decades of college women. Helena Ferguson, the Foundation’s research assistant and second year master’s degree candidate in the University of South Carolina’s Anthropology Department, will serve as the lead investigator conducting the archaeological survey work at the Hampton-Preston Mansion. “Helena’s survey work on the house museum property marks yet another chapter in Historic Columbia Foundation’s strategic quest to learn more about the historic sites under its stewardship through archaeological investigation as it continues to realize landscape improvements at all of its sites,” says John Sherrer, Director of Collections and Interpretation. Ferguson's efforts will utilize both the latest and earliest forms of technology. Initial inquiry involves the use of GPR, or ground penetrating radar, which is used in identifying below ground anomalies. Ferguson hopes to determine the locations of foundations, pipes, and other features. Next, she will grid out the entire tract and dig approximately 400 shovel test pits at equal intervals to establish various soil stratigraphies, or layers, and artifact deposits. The Foundation will offer a sneak preview of the archaeology work during the summer by offering several programs to the public beginning June 13 until August 1. Activities include the following: Field Trip Fridays June 13- August 1 10 am – 12 pm Participants will receive an introduction to archaeology and discuss the importance of the archaeology project. This event is $5 for members, adults, and children (recommended for children 5 and older). Family Day: The Big Dig June 21 10 am – 1 pm Featured activities include a scavenger hunt, creating archaeology kits, and digging demonstrations. Be prepared to get dirty and wear closed toe shoes to assist with sifting and cleaning. This event is $5 for adults and $3 for children (ages 6 and older). Members are free. Diggin’ History Reception – June 27 6 pm – 8 pm Public Dig - June 28 9 am – 12 pm Join Helena Ferguson for a reception and discussion on the archaeology project. Ferguson will present information on her progress and findings. The public dig will be held the following day for guests to assist in sifting and cleaning. This event is $10 is advance for students and members ($15 at the door), $15 for non-members ($20 at the door). For more information and to register for the events, call 803.252.1770, ext. 33. Visit Helena Ferguson’s blog at http://hparchaeology.blogspot.com/ for updates on her project at the mansion.