The Wake Forest Historic Preservation Commission will host an Archaeology Workshop on Saturday, April 27, at the site of the Ailey Young House. Two sessions will be offered–the first from 10 a.m. – noon and the second from 1 – 3 p.m.
The Ailey Young House is located along North White Street, north of Spring Street and south of the Wake Forest Cemetery. The one-and-one-half story saddlebag house is a rare example of Reconstruction-era rental housing that was the childhood home of Allen Young, an important educator in the history of Wake Forest. It is the oldest known African American historic resource within Wake Forest.
Hosted in partnership with the NC Office of State Archaeology and New South Associates, the workshop will be partially funded with a federal Historic Preservation Fund (HPF) grant awarded by the State Historic Preservation Office (HPO) through the National Park Service’s Certified Local Government Program (CLG).
The April 27 workshop is open to everyone but may be especially appealing to those with an interest in history, historic preservation, and archaeology. There is no cost to participate, but registration is required.
Please register HERE.
The Ailey Young House site is not an improved site and is not handicapped accessible. The archaeology workshop is not recommended for anyone who has difficulty walking or moving around.
Participants should dress appropriately for being outdoors by wearing protective clothing, sunscreen, insect repellent, hats, and appropriate closed-toe shoes (no sandals or flip-flops).
Everyone under 18 years of age must be accompanied by a parent or adult. Waiver of Liability forms are required for all participants and included with the online registration form.
Each workshop is approximately two hours and each group is limited to 30 participants. Groups will meet at the Ailey Young House site, where experts will be on hand to discuss various archaeological methods and practices.
Parking will be available at the Wake Forest Cemetery at 400 N. White Street. Participants are urged to follow the cemetery roads and park where the shoulder is wide enough to accommodate parking along Taylor Street and Spring Street. Participants are asked to be respectful in the event a funeral is scheduled on the day of the workshop.
In the event of rain, the workshop will be rescheduled for Saturday, May 4, at the same times.
For more information, contact Senior Planner Michelle Michael at 919-435-9516 or mmichael@wakeforestnc.gov.