Monticello Jefferson Plantation Geophysical Survey,Technical Report 1997.

Please note that the work at Monticello stresses the need to use geophysical methods in historic archaeology. This work was conducted for the specific purpose of directing research at the study of the people who were enslaved on this plantation. There is a real need to expand the interpretation of the history of this national monument and our work will help to widen this research. In fact, we have already found the "slave cemetery" which can now receive the attention that it deserves for preservation and protection. I am very proud of the practical and heritage component of this research.

Abstract In this report we discuss recent advancements in the application of geophysical prospecting techniques to archaeological field research. We specifically discuss the results of cesium vapor magnetometer research at Thomas Jefferson's Monticello. The use of new geophysical instruments and newly developed computer software programs will, in the near future, revolutionize the way historic archaeologists structure their survey and excavation work. We argue that the application of this equipment, however, must go beyond simply "new" or "neat" techniques and better "descriptions" for archaeologists. The ultimate contribution of these advanced technologies will be in our ability to contribute to the development of evolutionary theory and the explanation of historical events. Our objective here is to describe the research context that we have developed for geophysical exploration at Monticello and how it can be applied to studies in historical archaeology.

It is important to note that recent developments in remote sensing methods, aerial photographic image enhancements, and geophysical prospecting, coupled with strategically designed archaeological field surveys and test excavation programs can dramatically advance the development of archaeology as a science. The scientific equipment we operate in the field and computer hardware and software used in our studies represent significant advances in geophysical prospecting methods. The quality and quantity of data collected and processed is impressive and Thomas Jefferson's Monticello is an excellent natural laboratory for the purpose of geophysical research.