Recent News

“Dig” Earth Day with Earth Art and Archaeology

Thursday, 04 April 2013 12:49

This year’s Earth Day Celebration at the Wakefield Estate will offer families a chance to really “dig in” while they explore archaeology and earth art on April 19, from 10 a.m. until noon. During the visit to the estate, one can take in the first signs of spring’s beauty and meet the estate’s chickens, sheep, and Jack the llama.As in the past, the day’s activities will feature nature-based art activities for all ages, including making sun prints and nature collages. These activities are designed to be fun for any age from toddlers through teenagers.

This year at the estate, Earth Day is also Earth Archaeology day, with games and activities that will provide participants with a chance to see how archaeology works. Sara Belkin and Jenny Wildt, Boston University doctoral candidates in Archaeology who direct the estate’s Summer Archaeology Institute, will be on hand to guide visitors through a sample archaeological dig. Participants will have the opportunity to “excavate” real artifacts found during past Summer Archaeology Institute excavations. This activity is aimed at elementary and middle school students, and teen-agers interested in finding out more about the Summer Archaeology Institute. Applications forms for the Summer Institute will be available or can be requested by emailing This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it .

While this event is free, pre-registration is requested. Call 617-333-0924 for more information or to register.

 

The State of Bees is topic of March Stone Soup

Friday, 22 March 2013 09:52

This month, the Wakefield Estate’s Stone Soup and lecture will feature remarks by Ed Karle on the state of bees. Our fuzzy winged co-workers are in trouble, with many areas around the world reporting alarming rates of decline; some as high as 80%. Karle, President of the Norfolk County Beekeepers Association, will give an overview of the state of bees and what we can do to help bees recover. Soup served at 5:30; discussion at 6:00pm. RSVP requested. Call 617-333-0924. Donations welcome.

Registration open for 2013 Summer Archaeology Institute

Tuesday, 05 March 2013 15:36

The Wakefield Estate's Summer Archaeology Institute is a hands-on archaeological excavation at the historic Wakefield Estate in Milton, MA. It is one of only a few programs of its type in the country. The institute is specifically designed for high school and college students interested in learning about local history and archaeology. Participants will work side by side with graduate archaeology students from Boston University. Each two-week session offers students a hands-on introduction to the field of archaeology through participation in an actual excavation on site at the estate. To read about some of the past discoveries, check the news archive on our website. 

2013 Dates & Schedule

Session I:  July 8 – July 19; Monday-Friday 9am-3:30pm

Session II: July 22 – Aug 2; Monday-Friday, 9am-3:30pm 

Program Description

In each two-week session, participants will work closely with archaeologists to conduct survey work and learn how to set up an archaeological dig. Students will gain excavation experience and the methods and techniques involved in conducting archaeology. Possible field trips and special events include visiting the Boston City Archaeology Lab and meeting specialists from nearby archaeological museums.  Participants will also gain experience in identifying artifacts and the behind-the-scenes activities that occur after the fieldwork has been conducted.

Requirements

• Willingness to work outdoors in all kinds of weather,
• Ability to work independently as well as with others.
• Enthusiasm for hard work and getting dirty -- this is an archaeological dig!
• Commitment to teamwork and respect for others.

Cost

• $200 per session; $300 for both sessions
• Scholarships are available based on need. 

For more information or an application, please call 617-333-0924.

Note Date Change: Pruning Practicum this Saturday, March 16

Monday, 25 February 2013 12:15

Join us Saturday, March 16 from 12-2 pm for a unique opportunity to hone your pruning skills. This very special pruning workshop is designed as a "practicum" for folks who have taken basic pruning classes here, at the Arboretum, or elsewhere - or know the basics. Join our staff certified arborist for this session for this "hands-on" opportunity to practice what you've learned and refresh  your knowledge and technique of pruning. Participants will spend much of the workshop outside, "practicing" on the Wakefield Estate's collection, so dress accordingly. Suggested donation $15. Pre-registration requested at 617-333-0924.