Grand-Pré Opens with Fruitful Digs

May 18, 2009

Grand-Pré, May 18, 2009 – This year, archaeological discoveries provided added excitement to the opening of Grand-Pré National Historic Site. At the end of their second week of digging, the students enrolled in the Saint Mary’s University archaeology course finished excavating the cellar that was discovered in 2001. This cellar formed part of the basement of an Acadian dwelling.

Jonathan Fowler, Professor of Archaeology at Saint Mary’s University, said he was particularly pleased with the discovery of an almost intact wine bottle in the Acadian layer of this cellar. “This bottle hasn’t seen the light of day for over 250 years. Once we take it back to the lab, we hope it will have an interesting story to tell. We have one more week in the field and then we have three weeks to analyse all the artefacts we found this year at Grand-Pré.” Archaeology enthusiasts can consult the students' blog: http://grandpre2009.wordpress.com/

The young archaeologists will disappear, but visitors will be able to see the various sites where digging took place during the month of May.

Grand-Pré will be offering an enriched program this summer. Included in the exciting activities is “A Glimpse into Everyday Life in Grand-Pré,” a lively and amusing play performed by professional actors. The performances in English and French start on June 28th.

Admission is free to Grand-Pré National Historic Site (except for commercial groups) on Wednesday July 1st, Canada Day; on Sunday July 26th for Acadian Day; and on Saturday August 15th, National Feast Day of the Acadians.

Fragments of a wine bottle found on May 16th in the excavated cellar of an Acadian dwelling at Grand-Pré National Historic Site. Patches of charred earth indicate that the house was destroyed by fire. (Photo: Rob Ferguson)

For further details, please contact:

Sally Ross
Media Relations Consultant
Société Promotion Grand-Pré
(902) 826-2981

The Société Promotion Grand-Pré is a non-profit organization representing the Acadian community that collaborates with Parks Canada to ensure the development and integrity of Grand-Pré National Historic Site.

Contact: Victor Tétrault
Executive Director, Société Promotion Grand-Pré
Phone: 902) 542-1952
Fax:902) 542-1691
WebSite: www.grand-pre.com