Mocama Archaeological Research Center

The *Mocama Archaeological Research Center (MARC) is one of Preservation Project North Florida’s flagship projects.  MARC is designed to house the ongoing archaeological research conducted by Keith Ashley, our resident archaeologist, and showcase the artifacts that have been discovered here in Northeast Florida.  Until now, these remarkable and extraordinary artifacts (some dating as far back as 4000 B.C.) have been stored away in off-site curatorial facilities.  Ultimately, MARC will be the keeper of the historical story of the indigenous peoples known as the Timucua. Seasonal exhibits will keep their story ‘alive’ as new artifacts are uncovered.  MARC will offer opportunities for academia fellowships and field schools for ‘hands-on’ archaeological digs, as well as an ‘observation working lab’ for those who just want to observe.  MARC will also have state-of-the-art meeting facilities, auditoriums, and offer lectures and workshops.

*Mocama, which translates to “the sea or ocean,” was the Atlantic coastal or maritime dialect spoken by the Timucua of the Jacksonville area, and referred to the geographic areas of coastal South Georgia/North Florida.