What treasures await in the drowned lands

PINE ISLAND — The Drowned Lands Historical Society is hosting its third annual artifact hunt on Thursday, July 17, beginning at 6 p.m.

Join the society as they walk the freshly plowed fields and search for arrowheads, points and shards. It is a highly anticipated event, and it's free, although donations are always welcome. Bring the family. No specific tools are needed as artifacts are found on top of the dirt. Participants are free to take home any artifacts they find.

This event is being held at Bob Sodrick's farm on Van Sickle Hill. Sodrick is the son of the late Frances Sodrick, whose collection of Black Dirt artifacts and farming memorabilia comprises most of the historical society’s considerable collection. Van Sickle Hill is a known trove of Indian artifacts. The Sodrick farm is private land and normally closed to the public.

To reach the farm from the center of Pine Island, take Pulaski Highway heading north across Black Dirt flats. After 1.8 miles, almost at the top of a slight hill, turn left into Van Sickle Lane. Go about 100 yards and turn left onto a dirt lane. Go about a quarter of a mile and park.

For more information, call Tracey Pietrzak at 845-981-7064 or email teanyc@hotmail.com.