The A-rchaeology team

It was pointed out to me that I should make a post introducing everyone who came and participated in the Archaeology project out in the Chacabuco Valley. Initially we were supposed to be split into two groups but due to numbers we stayed in one group and put all our effort into one of the the two proposed sites. This is something that turned out to be for the best.

I think first and foremost, Francisco Mena or "Pancho", who was the leading archaeologist for the duration of the dig, deserves a tremendous amount of both respect as well as recognition for his work and knowledge in all things archaic. This man is in line to be one of the most humble, inspiring and determined individuals I have ever had the privilege of meeting. If you see any photos of the dig, he is the guy who is working the hardest and without complaining.

Another figure who deserves recognition is Anna Prentiss, a professor at the University of Montana who, unfortunately, only stayed with us for a short duration. Both Pancho and Anna share a contagious passion for their profession and shared their wealth of knowledge with the rest of us which made them irresistible to work with. Archaeology is now a definite possibility for me as far as a career path.

The other four archaeologists, who were all amazing to work with, include; Felipe Fuentes who was Panchos right hand and can identify bones pretty much instantly. Maria Pas Retamales who worked day and night despite a broken finger and who was a pleasure to work with and talk to. Elisa Calas and Maria Luisa Gomez Lira were two integral members of the dig who spent many hours reassuring me that all the things I kept pulling out of the pit were just rocks and not ancient arrowheads or tools. Thanks to you two for putting up with my very poor Spanish and making it easier to dig through 13 inches of sheep crap.

Next up are the guides Christian Solis and Don Juan "johnney" (sorry Juan, I'll need to get ahold of your last name and update this post later). These guys really made the trip enjoyable especially the long roadtrips between Coyhaique, Chacabuco and Tortel. These two made sure there was always something to eat and drink including real coffee. Their knowledge of the outdoors is extensive and they kept a professional yet friendly attitude throughout the trip. Some of the most enjoyable moments from the last two weeks have been conversing with the guides in broken Spanish and English alike. Ahh Sipo...

The 2 logistic powerhouses behind the whole expedition include Trace Gale and Christine Sbolgi. These are two highly motivated individuals who made this whole thing possible down to the very first email. Both are employed by CIEP and both own and operate other businesses. Thanks to both of you for finding the time to make sure everything went according to plan (as much as possible) and talking to us on the friendliest of levels.

Special guests include:

Jamie Fields, who came out for a few days and brought the party to the asado. Thanks for the vino and the great conversations!

Jose Bustamonte, a soldier in the army of Chile who was very grateful for our presence and made us feel welcome with many cups of mate.

Alvaro, The gaucho and the manliest man alive. That is all.

Finally, Thuy and Jennifer, two people who I consider to be good friends. This trip would not have been the same without either of you and thank you for sharing the past two amazing weeks. The fun has been endless and I seriously hope we can have a reunion next year. Jennifer, Im sure I'll see you in Orlando and Thuy you are welcome anytime. New York is covered in snow right now anyway!

Thanks to everyone for making Chacabuco 2011 as memorable as it was and please let me know if I have misspelled anyones name or made any other errors.