44 Backfilling the excavation

Student backfilling an archaeological excavation. (Photograph courtesy of Research Laboratories of Archaeology. More about the photograph)

After each summer’s excavation is finished, the site is backfilled. That is, all the dirt that was taken out of the squares and features is put back in. This helps preserve the site by preventing erosion and discouraging vandalism (which, sad to say, is a very real problem at archaeological sites).

Congratulations! You have just completed the Archaeology Primer.

Now you have enough knowledge about archaeology to begin your own Electronic Dig, hosted by the Research Laboratories of Archaeology.

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Learn more

• Excavating Occaneechi Town The original version published by the UNC Research Laboratories of Archaeology includes historical background, interactive activities, and additional information about Occaneechi Town.

Related topics

• Search LEARN NC for more resources on American Indian towns, American Indians, North Carolina, Occaneechi, archaeology, backfilling, and excavations.

Excavating Occaneechi Town

The original version published by the UNC Research Laboratories of Archaeology includes historical background, interactive activities, and additional information about Occaneechi Town.