Case study

Historic Archaeology

Data Recovery at the Horton House, Jekyll Island, Georgia

Public archaeology at one of Georgia's premier colonial sites draws attention to the unique historical treasures of Georgia's Golden Isles

By Rita Folse Elliott
Produced for the Jekyll Island Authority
Spring 2002

Southern Research worked closely with the Jekyll Island-State Park Authority as part of a Structural and Site Preservation Plan for this National Register Site funded in part by a National Park Service Save America's Treasures grant. The Horton House was built by one of colonial Georgia's early leaders, Major William Horton, in about 1747. It was occupied until the mid-nineteenth century by the DuBignon family. Archaeologists used shovel testing, unit excavation, and ground penetrating radar technology to define the 40-acre site and discovered discrete areas of eighteenth and nineteenth century activity, including a possible slave quarters, overseer's residence, and main house kitchen.

In addition Southern Research created, advertised, and administered a large public outreach component. This consisted of guided and self-guided site tours, interpretive tour signage, educational flyers, archaeological excavations in progress, hands-on non-destructive activities, a Powerpoint presentation, museum exhibit, and outreach evaluation. An estimated total of over 2,000 people visited the site during the eight days of public outreach.