The La-boratory

The Lab is a very important part of my job.  When we get artifacts in from the field they go to the lab to be processed, cleaned, sorted, and identified.  Then they are accessioned and cataloged into our database and archivally housed.  Most of what we get in is animal bone and what is known as sand-tempered plain bodied ceramic fragements.  Occassionally we get lithics and other types of prehistoric tools.  The lab is the backbone of the Collections Division and is the final step of an archaeological project.

Right now several projects are going on.  I'm working on an inventory of our collection and also working on processing our 10 year backlog!  My lab manager is working on processing incoming projects from the field and is working on a project that consists of a large amount of burned animal bone, meaning it was most likely an archaic camp site.   

There's always something going on in the Lab!

Inventory!

Sorting the artifacts

Drying Racks-where the artifacts go after they are washed

supplies

The observation hallway-it creeps me out that people can see me

Washing Area

Some of the tools to help clean

My awesome lab coat!