MMFF has successfully completed the scheduled work day at the site. We
completely cleared about 300 feet of fence row. We started about 300 feet
east of the west fence line completely clearing the largest space between
contiguious substantial trees in the vicinity. beyond this area, we thinned
and trimmed along the edge of the field. We had 10 workers. Hot dogs were provided for lunch to volunteers assisting with the clean up. Shared snacks provided a veritable banquet throughout the day. We began at 9:15, took a break at 10:30, lunched at noon,
and ended around 3:00. It was moderately windy during the day, and the
ground was pretty dry- however we had no trouble containing the brush fire to the single established burn site. Mike Riggs arrived around 10:30. MMFFer, Larry Harlacher operated his chain saw throughout the day. Dave McEwen brought two missionary elders from the Caldwell and Daviess Counties mission. Dave operated his chain saw for about 1 hour. He and the elders did some exploration in the middle of the field then left around 2:00. We had porta-potties on site. The rest of the crew left around 3:00. Mike Hoey and I stayed until 9:00 p.m. tending the fire and spreading the ashes. There were relatively few visitors during the day. The work day proved very successful and provides a big boost to implementation of this season's archaeological plans.
Mike Hoey, tending the fire
Missouri Mormon Frontier Foundation was pleased to accept a request from Lachlan Mackay, Director of Community of Christ Historic Sites, to organize and host a work day at Haun's Mill. We focused the work on clearing brush from along the west end of the north fence line of the main field north of Shoal Creek. The area cleared is slated for archaeological exploration this coming season.
Nancy Harlacher, carrying brush
Over the past couple of years, interest in Haun's Mill has redoubled. Scholars and friends of Restoration history are seeking to better understand the story of Haun's Mill. A number of historical organizations have joined to advance this common effort to uncover the physical lay out of the former community and better identify specific sites, such as the Haun's Mill well. It is hoped that this work will lead to the placement of an appropriate interpretive marker as an aid to assist the many visitors who travel to the site.
Nancy, Larry Harlacher and Elder Morris
Two years ago, MMFF sponsored a similar clean up day at the historic site. The participation of 30 or more volunteers two years ago helped make the 2002 clean up a big success. The work accomplished at that time greatly facilitated subsequent archaeological investigations conducted over the past two summer and fall seasons (2002-2003). Now, the area along the north edge of the field has been identified as a focus of future explorations -- so your help is needed to clear the brush and prepare the site for the archaeological team.
Plans for the coming season involve area Archaeoligist Paul DeBarthe and his team in a continuing reconnaissance at Haun's Mill. The public and interested parties are invited to assist in late summer and fall investigations. Those with an interest in Mormon and local history are strongly encouraged to join in this endeavor. Paul adds, "bring a trowel, a paint brush and get your hands dirty. Even if only one trip is possible, it would be well worth your while and we could sure use your help." To be involved with future archaeological activities, contact Mike Riggs: farwest@cameron.net.
If you would like to visit the Haun's Mill site, here is the easiest route:
From KC- up I-35. Exit I-35 at Exit 40 [Lathrop-Polo] turn right (east) on MO Highway 116. At Polo, turn right (north) on Highway 13. Before Kingston- turn right (east) on F Highway. Follow the curves and turns of F for about 6 miles to Catawba. At Catawba turn left (north) - cross Shoal Creek (over the new bridge) and turn left (west) at the end of the bridge. Follow this gravel road to the site. New directional signage is currently being planned.
Harold Spidle, Janell Jenkins and David McEwen
For more information on facilities and events at the Far West Cultural Center, follow these links:
