Salem's dedicated archaeologist, Kimberli Fitzgerald, has been instrumental in safeguarding the city's rich historical tapestry. Her work has not only uncovered fascinating artifacts but has also set a precedent for other cities in Oregon. With over 250 known archaeological sites beneath Salem's buildings and streets, Fitzgerald's role is more crucial than ever. Her expertise and innovative approach have transformed the way the city handles its cultural heritage, earning her recognition and accolades.
Fitzgerald's journey began as a consultant before she joined the city full-time in 2009. She brought with her a wealth of knowledge, including master's degrees in city planning and historic preservation. Salem's initial challenges in handling artifacts and a lack of clear procedures led Fitzgerald to pursue further education, resulting in a master's degree in archaeology and cultural resource management. This decision proved pivotal, as it equipped her with the skills to engage the public while preserving historical sites.
One of her most notable achievements was the discovery of a Chinese shrine in Pioneer Cemetery in 2017, which led to the city hosting the annual Qing Ming Festival. Fitzgerald's proactive approach to archaeology has made her a sought-after expert, with colleagues inviting her to speak at conferences and cities across Oregon looking to replicate her program. Her ability to balance preservation with education has been a game-changer.
Fitzgerald's work extends beyond known archaeological sites. She often starts her investigations on street corners, where city crews uncover potential artifacts, and her expertise helps avoid delays. By obtaining expedited archaeology permits, she can conduct the necessary work efficiently, saving time and money. For instance, near Marion and Church streets, she recovered 2,000 artifacts in just three hours, preventing a longer closure of the right-of-way.
The city's archaeology lab, equipped with specialized tools like a soil oven and nitrogen vacuum sealer, plays a vital role in preserving fragile artifacts. Fitzgerald's team, including interns and volunteers from the Oregon Archaeological Society, meticulously documents and processes each artifact, ensuring they are stored safely. This process can take longer than the excavation itself, as each artifact's history and significance are carefully researched and recorded.
Fitzgerald's collaboration with tribal leaders is another cornerstone of her work. She has worked closely with representatives from The Confederated Tribes of Grand Ronde to interpret and share the history of sites like the police facility and the former Methodist Mission's Indian Manual Labor Training School. These partnerships have not only enriched the city's understanding of its past but have also fostered a deeper appreciation for Native American history.
One of the most significant projects was the Lee house site, where Fitzgerald's team connected the Methodist Mission sites by matching artifacts. This discovery highlighted the importance of thorough excavation and the potential for further connections. Fitzgerald's dedication to her work has not gone unnoticed, as other Oregon cities seek her guidance in developing their archaeology programs.
As the city of Salem continues to grow and develop, Fitzgerald's role remains pivotal. Her ability to navigate the complex world of archaeology, planning, and permitting has made her an invaluable asset. With her expertise, Salem has become a model for other cities, demonstrating that cultural preservation can be both achievable and engaging. As the city's archaeologist, Kimberli Fitzgerald is not just safeguarding the past; she is shaping a future where history and progress coexist harmoniously.
