Veteran-led Excavation in South Carolina Seeks to Advance Understanding of Past, Empower Disabled Vets Directly
A group of disabled veterans were recently brought together to excavate a Revolutionary War battlefield — but it was far from the usual dig.
The project, organized by the American Veterans Archaeological Recovery (AVAR), spanned four weeks and concluded in February.
Fourteen veterans gathered in Kershaw County, South Carolina, determined to unearth stories buried where the pivotal Battle of Camden unfolded in August 1780. However, their quest extended beyond merely uncovering musket balls.
Rediscovering the Battle of Camden
“Many Americans remain unaware of its significance… but this battle carried weight not just for the South, but for the North as well,” noted an expert immersed in this history. “One compelling question we seek to resolve is how actively the American militia engaged, as they often bear the blame for the defeat.”
The excavation’s mission revolved around enhancing historical comprehension by amassing enough data to form a heat map detailing battle movements. This data could answer longstanding questions: “According to historical texts, the militia seems to falter almost instantly… We are here to see if that assertion holds true archaeologically,” explained Humphreys.
Innovative Techniques Unveiling the Past
Searching for artifacts, while seemingly straightforward, is layered with complexity. Collecting spatial data offers insights into battle dynamics, painting a clearer picture of conflict realities. “We’re implementing an intensive metal detector survey. This meticulous tracking of forces and movements helps us understand the real story behind the recorded events,” Humphreys elaborated. “Every musket ball, plotted meticulously on a vast GIS map, offers clues to where units engaged during the crucial day.”
“What emerges is akin to a heat map, revealing firing patterns, helping us to evaluate where troops took their positions,” he added thoughtfully.
The Heart of AVAR: Empowering Veterans
Humphreys, a U.S. Air Force veteran who served in both Operation Iraqi Freedom and Operation Enduring Freedom, established AVAR in 2016, inspired to offer veterans a chance to transition into archaeology. Many participants come with unique perspectives shaped by their experiences, and a significant number are disabled.
“They bring a willingness to put in the hard work… There’s a profound reverence for these sites, uniquely held by them.”
Although some veterans face various disabilities, their strengths are emphasized in the fieldwork, particularly at conflict sites where their backgrounds provide unparalleled respect and understanding. “We know that working on-site can alleviate symptoms of stress and anxiety. Yet, our primary aim remains to create job opportunities,” Humphreys reiterated.
“They embody excellence and teamwork,” he praised his fellow veterans. “They bond quickly, understanding what it takes to complete the tasks. The veteran work ethic is remarkable.”
“Our veterans work harder than many in the field, demonstrating a commitment that makes them invaluable,” he remarked, with a hint of pride. “They strive to unearth every artifact, as each piece tells a personal story.”
Humphreys views the Revolutionary War site as “special,” resonating deeply. Veterans connect emotionally to such historic grounds. “Walking there, you feel the breath of history, the whispers of the past, as the wind sighs through the pines,” he mused.
The excavation also involved collaborations with local organizations, including the American Battlefield Trust, the Historic Camden Foundation, the South Carolina American Revolution Trust, and the South Carolina Institute for Archaeology and Anthropology.
“AVAR’s mission reveals the remarkable duality of preserved battlefields: they deepen our understanding of history through tangible exploration and serve as venues for enhancing the mental and physical well-being of veterans,” Duncan affirmed.
“We were privileged to bring this profoundly impactful program to Trust-owned land, creating a meaningful experience for all involved.”
