Archaeology at Old Baldy Lighthouse: Uncovering History with Veterans and Archaeologists

The Old Baldy Foundation is embarking on an exciting new chapter in the preservation and interpretation of Bald Head Island’s history. In partnership with American Veterans Archaeological Recovery (AVAR), the Foundation will begin an archaeological exploration of the historic Old Baldy Lighthouse reservation. The project aims to uncover material evidence from past conflicts, including the American Revolution and the Civil War.

The exploration will focus on a recently acquired parcel of land adjacent to the lighthouse grounds, generously donated to the Old Baldy Foundation by Mark and Robin Prak. As part of the original twenty-acre lighthouse reservation, this property may hold artifacts and cultural resources that shed light on the lighthouse’s past, the families who served as keepers, and the soldiers stationed on Bald Head Island during pivotal moments in American history.

“This project is an exciting opportunity to deepen our understanding of Bald Head Island’s role in early American history,” said Travis Gilbert, Director of Philanthropy for the Old Baldy Foundation. “We’re proud to welcome AVAR to Bald Head Island and to create an experience where veterans, historians, and our community can work together to uncover and protect our shared heritage.”

Historic Happy Hour Features AVAR Founder Stephen Humphreys on “Veterans in Conflict Archaeology”

Connecting Veterans to Archaeology

AVAR’s mission is to provide military veterans with hands-on field experience, expert training, and career pathways in professional archaeology. By participating in structured archaeological projects, veterans gain valuable skills while contributing to the preservation and interpretation of historically significant sites. This collaboration highlights the shared mission of both organizations: preserving history while providing meaningful, career-oriented opportunities for veterans.

The community is invited to learn more about AVAR and the Bald Head Island archaeological project at a Historic Happy Hour on Tuesday, March 17th, at 4:30 PM at Old Baldy Lighthouse. AVAR’s executive director, Stephen Humphreys, Ph.D., will present a talk entitled:

“The Battlefield as a Bridge: Veterans in Conflict Archaeology”

Stephen co-founded AVAR in 2016 and has served as CEO since that time. He is the principal investigator for the AVAR Conflict Archaeology School-Camden and the Finding Medina Projects, has directed fieldwork for numerous Defense POW/MIA Accounting Agency recoveries, and serves on the Advisory Board of the Center for Integrative Research in Conflict Archaeology. A National Geographic Explorer, Stephen has directed projects in Israel, Jordan, Cyprus, the United Kingdom, Sicily, and the United States.

He holds a Ph.D. in archaeology from Durham University, as well as MAs in Archaeology & Biblical Studies and Theology from Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary. Before his graduate studies, Stephen served as a commissioned officer in the United States Air Force, deploying in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom and Operation Enduring Freedom.

In his presentation, Stephen will explore how battlefields and conflict sites serve as meaningful spaces for veterans transitioning into archaeology careers. Attendees will gain insight into why these sites are critical both for historical preservation and for veteran communities, and how veterans can find new purpose and professional growth in the field of archaeology.

Tickets for the Historic Happy Hour are $15 and can be purchased in advance at oldbaldy.org or at the door. Join us for an evening of history, archaeology, and community, and learn how the past continues to shape lives today.