Veterans Uncover History at Revolutionary War Battlefield to Empower Disabled Heroes

A team of disabled veterans recently embarked on a unique excavation project at a Revolutionary War battlefield, aimed at both uncovering historical artifacts and fostering empowerment among veterans facing challenges. Unlike typical archaeological digs, this initiative blends history, healing, and teamwork.

Excavating the Past

The project was orchestrated by the American Veterans Archaeological Recovery, known as AVAR, and unfolded over four weeks, concluding in February. Fourteen veterans journeyed to Kershaw County, South Carolina, to excavate the site of the Battle of Camden, fought in August 1780. This battle is often viewed as a significant defeat for the colonial forces, yet it remains relatively obscure in popular history.

The Significance of the Battle

According to AVAR founder Stephen Humphreys, the significance of the Battle of Camden extends beyond its immediate outcomes. He noted, “A lot of Americans haven’t heard about it but it holds great importance for both the South and the North. A significant inquiry involves understanding the American militia’s performance during the battle, as they often absorb the blame for the loss.”

High-Tech Historical Inquiry

As part of their mission, the veterans employed advanced technology to gather precise data about the battle. Using GPS receivers, they aimed to craft a detailed heat map illustrating troop movements. “The textual sources suggest that the American militia may have faltered early in the conflict,” Humphreys explained. “So, we sought archaeological evidence to corroborate or refute this notion.”

Understanding Spatial Dynamics

The approach adopted by the AVAR archaeologists is more complex than merely searching for artifacts. Collecting spatial data is crucial for illuminating the dynamics of the battle. Humphreys elaborated, “We’re conducting a rigorous metal detector survey to accurately chart the various forces’ locations during the battle. Each musket ball discovered contributes to a larger GIS map, allowing us to visualize troop positions and movements on that pivotal day.”

Creating a Heat Map

The end result of this meticulous data collection will be a heat map that reveals significant patterns from the battlefield. Humphreys stated, “This visualization will show firing positions and target areas of the troops, helping us evaluate where and how effectively they engaged in combat.”

Empowering Veterans Through Archaeology

The project is a testament to the therapeutic benefits of engaging disabled veterans in meaningful work. Humphreys, a U.S. Air Force veteran with extensive archaeological experience, established AVAR in 2016 to offer veterans opportunities in archaeology. Many participants bring unique perspectives and skills to the field, making them invaluable assets in excavation projects.

“While many of our veterans grapple with disabilities, we emphasize their strengths,” Humphreys noted. “Each veteran’s background equips them with a distinct perspective, particularly at conflict sites. Their unique understanding and respect for these locations enrich the archaeological narrative.”

The Therapeutic Value of Digs

Participating in archaeological digs serves a dual purpose: advancing historical research and aiding mental health recovery. Humphreys observes that working on-site often alleviates stress, anxiety, and depression among disabled veterans, offering them camaraderie and purpose.

“The dedication and teamwork exhibited by our veterans are impressive,“ Humphreys added. “They form close bonds and understand how to effectively complete tasks. The work ethic among veterans is unparalleled in this field.”