About

So where did I come from, why this list, and why on earth would I do this for free? Well I myself have been involved directly with archaeology since 1985 (Copan, Ft. Union, Stacey Dam, Hohokam Expressway, Iroquois Pipeline, EPNG pipeline, Dos Pilas, Pendejo Cave, Mayflower, Ft. Bliss, McGregor Range, Ros-35, Parris Island, etc...). Though my interests in archaeology long predate my first forays into fieldwork. My parents encouraged an early fascination with archaeology fostered by trips to visit Koster at its prime, Cahokia, and Dixon Mounds. When I left Northern Illinois University and entered the ranks of CRM in the united states I became aware that this profession needed a resource that took us beyond the unpredictable word of mouth network we often depended on, or the closed network of the good ol' boy's. Before and during my years in the field I developed a strong skill set in technology and so when I felt that a critical mass of peers had access to e-mail I felt the time was right to launch Shovelbums.

During the first year I did receive numerous e-mail's discouraging me from pursuing this approach. I was told that regional web sites already existed and it was unlikely anyone from that region would join a service like this. Other felt it was just a bad idea. I felt that the concept was sound, i.e. it was easier for a member to scan an e-mail sent to them with a consistent subject heading, then to make the effort to visit the regional, or national, job boards hoping to see all of the listings available.

As for keeping the list free, well, over the years I have used many "shareware" and "freeware" versions of software and always respected that philosophy. Would I love to see some money from this list to pay for the resources, web servers, etc.? Of course I would, I have the same real world concerns as any other person, students loans, bills, etc.. so that is why I have always asked people to support this service in as painless a way as possible. If you already buy online then by visiting http://amazon.Shovelbums.org and making these same purchases that you would on the net anyway, books, DVD's, etc. then this site gets a small commission which helps to keep it alive. In the spring of 2003 I have introduced a line of clothing geared towards archaeologists showcasing the Shovelbums.org logo and what I feel are great, fun to wear and use items. This store can be found at http://store.Shovelbums.org .

You can help to promote the list by posting or mailing the document available at promote.Shovelbums.org

Best,

R. Joe