Veterans Empowered through Unique Conflict Archaeology Program in Camden, SC

In an exciting initiative, the Historic Camden Foundation, along with American Veterans Archaeological Recovery (AVAR), has unveiled the 2026 AVAR Conflict Archaeology Field School. This program, which is now entering its second year, invites veterans to immerse themselves in the rich history of a Revolutionary War battlefield and colonial settlement in Camden, South Carolina. The project serves a dual purpose: to enhance our understanding of historical events and to equip veterans with valuable skills for careers in the heritage sector.

Scheduled to run for roughly four weeks starting mid-February, the program offers not only hands-on fieldwork experience but also a series of eight free lectures for local community members. This initiative aims to foster a stronger connection between veterans and the community while teaching critical archaeological skills.

Stacey Ferguson, the deputy director of the Historic Camden Foundation and an active participant in the AVAR program, spoke highly of veterans' contributions to archaeological work. She noted, "When you put veterans in the field, their professionalism, attention to detail, and ability to adapt to all environmental conditions equate to solid archaeological work." This sentiment echoes throughout the veteran community, emphasizing how deeply their service and training can translate into meaningful contributions in new fields.

The program employs what is termed "rehabilitation archaeology" to aid veterans in transitioning to paid employment within the archaeological sector. This method focuses on leveraging veterans' abilities, rather than their disabilities. There are few places that showcase these abilities better than historic battlefields, making Camden an ideal location for the initiative.

Veterans completing the program will have the opportunity to gain employment through AVAR at various archaeological sites across the United States. The unique structure of the field school not only provides training in technical skills required for effective fieldwork but also offers valuable insights into adapting from military to civilian careers within archaeology. This year's iteration builds on the successes of the previous winter's session, backed by a generous grant from the American Battlefield Trust.

Participants will engage in two distinct archaeological explorations: one focused on urban excavation at the Camden Battlefield, and the other on a field survey at the site of the original colonial town. By experiencing diverse excavation skills, veterans can develop a broader range of professional capabilities.

Stephen Humphreys, AVAR CEO, highlighted the historical significance of military contributions to archaeology. He expressed, "The military has a long history of contributing to the field of archaeology, and we have found that work on battlefields, where our veterans can find a profound connection to the subject matter on hallowed ground, is particularly meaningful to our participants."

Throughout February and March, experts including Humphreys will engage with the community as guest lecturers in the lecture series, fostering a rich dialogue about the historical insights gained from the archaeological work. Ferguson noted the overwhelming community support for this program in the previous year, emphasizing how the lectures provide an opportunity for residents to learn more about the important discoveries being made.

The significance of the Camden Battlefield itself cannot be overstated. This historical site marks a devastating defeat for American forces early in the Revolutionary War's Southern Campaigns. Following the British capture of Charleston in May 1780, General Cornwallis established a stronghold in Camden to exert control over the South Carolina backcountry. As a result, General Horatio Gates' Continental army marched southward, leading to a fierce confrontation on August 16. Many soldiers lost their lives in this battle, with numerous unmarked graves situated near the battlefield, which are only recently being addressed due to erosion. In 2023, the remains of thirteen soldiers were reinterred in Camden's Quaker Cemetery, reminding us of the ongoing need for archaeological investigation in preserving and recognizing these crucial historical narratives.

AVAR continues to lead numerous archaeological fieldwork sessions, having previously identified sites like the 1813 Battle of Medina in Texas, and initiated recovery projects in England and Sicily aimed at unearthing the remains of missing World War II servicemen. With veteran teams undertaking a wide array of professional archaeological work—much of it focused on conflict-related sites—the AVAR initiative in Camden signifies a remarkable convergence of history, healing, and community support.

In essence, the AVAR Conflict Archaeology Field School exemplifies how history can be a powerful tool not just for learning but also for personal transformation. Through this innovative program, veterans are gaining much more than skills; they are reclaiming their stories and stepping into new futures as stewards of our collective past.