New MOSH Exhibit Uncovers the Past

MOSH is proud to announce Uncovering the Past: New Archaeological Discoveries of Northeast Florida in partnership with Timucuan Trail Parks Foundation. The fields of archaeology, history, science and land preservation merge to reveal a comprehensive look at Native American life both before and after European contact in what archaeologists call the St. Mary’s Region. The exhibit, on display in The Loft Gallery on the third floor, opens to the public October 12.
Uncovering the Past, curated by Dr. Keith H. Ashley, Ph.D., a researcher in the University of North Florida Archaeology Lab, features archaeological materials and artifacts from MOSH, National Park Service and University of North Florida. Many of the artifacts have never been on public display. Exhibit goers will learn how archaeologists use science in the field and the lab, and get to know some of Northeast Florida’s beautiful city, state and national parks and the important role they play in preserving our native history. Sites included in the exhibit include Mayport, Big Talbot Island State Park, Fort George Island Cultural State Park, Queens Harbour, and the Timucuan Ecological and Historic Preserve.
“When most people think of archaeology, they think about the history it reveals,” said Christy Leonard, MOSH Curator and Director of Operations. “Uncovering the Past sheds light on the role science plays in unlocking the past. We are thrilled to collaborate with guest curator Dr. Ashley for this exhibit that perfectly aligns with our mission to bring science and history to life.”
The exhibit will come to life with artwork by Theodore Morris. This masterful artist creates his work based on countless hours of research on Native Americans which includes going to universities, museums, and libraries to study records and artifacts and talking to scholars and participating in archaeological digs. See examples of his work at www.floridalosttribes.com.
Uncovering the Past: New Archaeological Discoveries in Northeast Florida opens October 12 and runs through August 31, 2014.
About Guest Curator Dr. Keith Ashley, Ph.D.
Dr. Keith H. Ashley, Ph.D., a researcher in the University of North Florida Archaeology Lab and Guest Curator for Uncovering the Past exhibit, began his training by studying anthropology as an undergraduate student at Auburn University. After graduating, he went on to earn a Master’s of Science Degree in Anthropology at Florida State University and a Ph.D. in Anthropology at University of Florida. Today, he uses his training in the field and in the lab to learn more about the lives of Native Americans in Northeast Florida. In addition, Ashley shares his knowledge with students by teaching courses in Anthropology and Archaeology. Learn more at http://www.unf.edu/~kashley/.
About Timucuan Trail Parks Foundation
The Timucuan Trail Parks Foundation (TTPF) is the support organization for the largest urban park system in the United States which consists of the National Park Service, Florida State Parks and City of Jacksonville Preservation Parks. The mission of TTPF is to preserve, protect and promote the Timucuan Trail Parks, and to promote a legacy of natural and cultural history. For more information about TTPF, visit www.timucuantrailparksfoundation.org.
About MOSH
The Museum of Science & History (MOSH) is located at 1025 Museum Circle near Friendship Park. MOSH, first chartered in 1941, inspires the joy of lifelong learning by bringing to life the sciences and regional history. Museum hours are 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday – Thursday; 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. Friday; 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Saturday; and 12 to 5 p.m. Sunday. Admission is $10 for adults and $8 for children ages 3 through 12, military and seniors. There is no admission fee for children 2 and under or museum members. Admission is $5 on Fridays. For more information, visit www.themosh.org.