Step 2: Site Survey

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A" Case Study: Excavations at the Stabler-Leadbeater Apothecary Shop
A Pictorial Guide to Site Selection and Background Research

Archaeologists make accurate maps of each site prior to excavation. The archaeologists first draw a base map which in dicates where the site is located. During the excavation, the archaeologists add to the map to show which portions of the site were excavated and where features and artifacts were discovered.

A grid is established over the site with string held by large nails or stakes. The grid is based on the cardinal points of the compass (north, south, east and west). Accurate measurements using the grid are taken using surveying equipment. A datum point, or point of reference such as a United States Geological Survey benchmark, is established, and measurements are taken from that point.

Surveying instruments such as the transit, alidade, plane-table and stadia rod are used to produce these accurate maps of the site by measuring distances, angles, heights and depths. This allows the archaeologist to produce the grid necessary to maintain artifact provenience. Tape measures, folding rules and mapping frames (a one meter square frame composed of a string grid at 10 centimeter intervals) are used throughout the excavation to take measurements and map features.

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