CHARLES COUNTY, Md. — The Archeological Society of Maryland (ASM), in collaboration with the Maryland Historic Trust’s Office of Archeology, completed the 2025 Tyler Bastian Field Session in Maryland Archeology from May 23 to June 2, 2025, at the Teagues Point Site in Charles County. The 11-day event brought together volunteers and professional archaeologists to excavate artifacts and features illuminating Maryland’s prehistoric and colonial history.
The field session, a tradition for over 50 years, offered participants hands-on opportunities to engage in professional archeological practices. Volunteers worked alongside experts to uncover significant finds at Teague’s Point Site, a location known for its historical importance in Charles County. The discoveries provide new insights into the region’s past, contributing to ongoing research about Maryland’s cultural heritage.
Under the guidance of Maryland’s leading archeological experts, participants supervised excavations and processed artifacts. The program included training in field recording, site preservation, and cultural resource management. These sessions ensured that even first-time diggers developed practical skills in preserving historical sites. Discussions led by professionals highlighted best practices, fostering a deeper understanding of archeological methods and their role in safeguarding Maryland’s history.
The Teagues Point Site, located in Charles County, has long been a focal point for archeological study due to its rich historical record. The 2025 field session’s findings add to the site’s legacy, offering clues about the lives of prehistoric and colonial inhabitants. Artifacts uncovered during the session will undergo further analysis to determine their historical context, with results expected to inform future studies and public education efforts.
The ASM and Maryland Historic Trust emphasized the collaborative nature of the field session, which welcomed participants of all experience levels. The program’s structure allowed novices to work alongside seasoned archaeologists, creating a dynamic learning environment. This approach has been a hallmark of the Tyler Bastian Field Session since its inception, making archeology accessible to the broader community while advancing scientific research.
Planning for the 2026 field session is underway, with details to be announced on the ASM website in the coming months. The ASM encourages those interested in archeology to explore future opportunities to participate in this immersive experience. Additional information about historic preservation in Charles County is available through the county’s dedicated resource.
The field session’s success underscores the importance of community involvement in preserving Maryland’s heritage. By combining public participation with professional expertise, the ASM and Maryland Historic Trust ensure that significant historical sites like Teagues Point remain a source of knowledge for future generations. The discoveries made during the 2025 session will contribute to a growing body of research, deepening the understanding of Maryland’s diverse history.
With its wealth of historical sites, Charles County continues to be a key region for archeological exploration. The Teagues Point Site’s prominence in this year’s field session highlights the county’s role in uncovering Maryland’s past. As analysis of the findings progresses, the ASM and its partners will share updates with the public, furthering the mission of education and preservation.