PORT ANGELES — The public will have an opportunity to view the archaeological excavation of the graving yard, the former home of an ancient Klallam village.
Lower Elwha Klallam tribal officials and archaeologists will give three one-hour tours of portions of the 22-acre waterfront site July 23.
“The intent is to have visitors observe what is going on at the grounds to better understand the excavation process,” said Lower Elwha Klallam Tribal Chairwoman Frances G. Charles on Tuesday.
Charles said the tours will be on a first-come, first-served basis, and reservations are required.
Each tour will be limited to 25 people because of safety requirements, she said.
Details about the tour will be given to those who RSVP.
‘Tour is long overdue’
The 35 archaeologists and 35 tribal workers who are carefully removing Klallam remains and artifacts from the village, named Tse-whit-zen, will be working to allow visitors to see an active archaeological dig.
“In my mind, this tour is long overdue,” Charles said.
“This puts people’s curiosities to rest and helps people better understand what we have been dealing with.
