Important archeological finds at Int’l Airport site

Books about the history of St. Vincent and the Grenadines are expected to expand by a number of chapters, following the discoveries made by archeologists at the Argyle International Airport site recently.{{more}}

The joint effort by the National Trust of St. Vincent and the Grenadines and the International Airport Development Company, which seeks to preserve and document these finds and others in the area, is said to be just as important as the construction of the airport itself.

At a press briefing at the IADC office on Monday, March 9th, Joe Moravetz, head of the archeological team visiting from the Bison Historical Services of Alberta, Canada indicated that the area shows occupation for nearly 2000 years, and that artifacts discovered in other places reveal that persons passed through the island long before that.

According to the archaeologist, pieces of pottery along with remains of the 22 human skeletons unearthed so far, indicate that the area was inhabited by Saladoids (Arawaks) and later by the Suazey (Caribs).

The different style of pottery among other things, tells the story of the different people who once claimed the area and island as their home.

Excavation of the area is expected to continue under the guidance of the National Trust, as Moravetz and his team returned to Canada on Wednesday, taking specimens of the artifacts and bones for further research.

President of the National Trust Kathy Martin, speaking at the press conference, said that her organization was pleased to facilitate the excavation and research process.

Martin said that an archeological team from Holland is expected here later this year, to continue works at other sites in the area.

She recommended that in the future, archeological research be conducted before the commencement of major construction, in areas which may have been or have been of some historical significance

Martin, Moravetz and CEO of the IADC Rudy Matthias applauded the efforts and assistance of students, volunteers and others who showed interest and assisted in the excavation and research at the site. Persons were encouraged to continue to help.

Special mention was made of Roydan Lampkin, who has now been employed by the IADC to carry on the excavations.