Join SUNY Oswego’s Archaeology Field School in summer 2026 and excavate historic features at the McWhorter House in Oswego city, NY!
As an intact 19th century era historic dwelling built by Mr. George McWhorter, and with a significant part of the existing structure built in 1828, the McWhorter House site represents a unique piece of Oswego city's local history. Mr. George McWhorter was the Collector of Customs for the Port of Oswego (appointed 1834, 1843), and corresponded with President Martin Van Buren (who also stayed at the McWhorter residence). The McWhorter house is recognized as one of the oldest stone houses in the city of Oswego, is situated on the east side of the city and almost within site of the port, with its house and grounds originally covering the entire city block. The stone house structure is still standing today, and much of the original grounds are still included on the property. To date, there has never been a professional modern archaeological excavation on the associated grounds of the McWhorter House, nor is the precise location of the trash midden (garbage dump) known.
We will focus on both historic preservation and professional training in archaeological survey, excavation, artifact analysis, and curation as we survey, map, and excavate historic features on the grounds of this historic site. Field, laboratory, and experimental approaches to archaeology are included in our accredited curriculum that will have students participate from the beginning to the end of an entire historic preservation project. All field and laboratory equipment and materials, including protective gear, will be provided to students by a grant from the Shineman Endowed Foundation at SUNY Oswego. Our curriculum also incorporates local field trips to archaeological and cultural sites within Oswego County. All transportation to and from the campus to field trips will be provided by the instructor.
