Sixteen students from Acadia University in Wolfville, Nova Scotia, are actively engaged in fieldwork to uncover the earliest building on campus. This hands-on experience is part of their coursework, History and Archaeology of Acadia, and a collaborative project known as Digging for Acadia. The primary objective is to identify the original foundations of the first College Hall that was constructed in 1844 and destroyed by fire in 1877.
Wendy Robicheau, an archivist at the university and project co-director, initiated the search for the original building prior to 2022. Due to changes in the campus layout over the years, pinpointing the exact location has been challenging as historical records are not definitive. Consequently, the team has resorted to excavation as the most reliable method to locate the structure.
Working alongside Robicheau is co-director and geologist Mo Snyder, who provides guidance to the students during fieldwork. Utilizing geophysical techniques such as interpreting the landscape and employing ground-penetrating radar, the group aims to identify subsurface features. Recent findings include stone foundations believed to be associated with a lost well, alongside the gravel used to fill it. Further investigation is required to confirm any connection to the initial College Hall.
During a recent dig, student Alice Godelie unearthed a red brick, marking a significant find for her. Excited about contributing to the search, Godelie expressed her exhilaration at the discovery. Snyder highlighted the rarity of such discoveries in Nova Scotia, emphasizing the challenge of finding historical artifacts close to the surface.
The excavation efforts are still in the early stages, with the team conducting additional test pits across various areas of the property. Robicheau is optimistic that the project will not only reveal the original College Hall foundations but also potentially uncover other long-lost structures from the university’s past. The history of Acadia, founded in 1838, is intertwined with its development over time, reflecting the evolution of the campus and its significance in understanding the university’s heritage.
By delving into the past, the project aims to provide insights into the growth and historical significance of Acadia University, offering a deeper appreciation of the campus’s evolution through the years.