Combination archival research, architectural documentation, and field survey internship. A project started by members of the Massanutten Chapter of the Archeological Society of Virginia, the scholarly documentation of outdoor bake ovens from German immigrant farmsteads (mainly late 18th century) has yet to be undertaken. Possibly community-based features, the ovens are believed to be derived from a southern German form. At least one intact oven exists in the North Fork Valley; another has been reconstructed; and two are known as archaeological features. Interns will undertake primary research into both the land and genealogical records to investigate the community association of the known ovens; document the standing oven (drawings, photographs, descriptions); and match its footprint to the archaeological features. All students who participate in this project will be strongly encouraged to present their work at local and professional meetings, and efforts will be made to secure funding for registration and travel. For more information contact Dr. Carole Nash, ISAT: nashcl@jmu.edu.
German Outdoor Bake Ovens, Harrisonburg, VA