Archaeological Investigations at Andalusia Farm (9BL320), Milledgeville, Baldwin County, Georgia: 2020 and Spring 2021 Field Seasons

Southern Research, Historic Preservation Consultants, Inc. conducted archaeological investigations at Andalusia Farm (9BL320) in November 2020 and March 2021. These two archaeological investigations build on preliminary investigations conducted in June 2019 (Williamson 2020). Both the 2020 and Spring 2021 field seasons included shovel testing and metal detection programs to expand Phase I survey coverage that began in 2019. Test unit excavations during the 2020 season were focused on the Hill House and on locating additional brick walkways around the Main House, while the Spring 2021 season test units were focused on locating nineteenth century structures and activity areas. Andalusia Farm is the home of celebrated author Flannery O'Connor (1925-1964); the Andalusia Farm museum is owned by the Board of Regents of the University System of Georgia and is managed by the Historic Museums at Georgia College (of the Georgia College and State University [GCSU]). The Georgia Environmental Policy Act (GEPA) (OCGA 12-16-1) requires state agencies and institutions to evaluate the effects of any undertaking on the environment, which includes cultural resources, and to mitigate any effects that may be adverse. Additionally, the State Agency Historic Property Stewardship Program (OCGA 12-3-55) requires that "historic properties under the jurisdiction of the agency are to be managed and maintained in a way that considers the preservation of their historic, archaeological, architectural, and cultural values." A 2004 records review and reconnaissance outlined appropriate stewardship goals and methods for existing and future GCSU properties (Elliott 2004). Adherence to both the letter and spirit of GEPA is ethical and mandated by law.