Archaeology at Plum Grove

Since 1974, a number of archaeologists have excavated at the Plum Grove farmstead, most notably Thomas Charlton, who conducted an annual field school (1996-2010). The excavations are designed to improve our understanding of Iowa frontier history and changes in farming from 1844 until 1943.

Features excavated so far include the Lucas and Hoyt barns, a butchering trench filled with animal bones from the Switzer period, the gardens from the Hughes period, several cisterns, the house septic system, foundations of the house additions, and several out buildings.