Did you know that there over 100,000 ancient, Middle Eastern artifacts in Michigan? From 1924-1926, Francis Kelsey from the University of Michigan, a real-life Indiana Jones, had spearheaded an expedition of archaeologists to the Middle East and North Africa. Chuck and I happened upon The Kelsey Museum of Archeology on the university’s campus. It was open, so went inside for a look-see. We not only found artifacts but a story of tenacity that dazzled us. Join us!
These artifacts had been given to the archeologists as gifts from the host countries. Some pieces had been purchased, too. The vast collection includes up to 50,000 coins, tablets, pottery, jewelry, statues and toys, as well as a sarcophagus of the goddess, Djehutymose, and the mummy of a child.
There was awe around every corner of the Kelsey Museum! Professor Francis Kelsey believed in the “power of the object to connect students of today to people of the past.” But who were the Indiana Jones characters in this adventure? How did they traverse the land and dig for treasure a hundred years ago?
Archeologists
These archeologists conducted field surveys and excavations, constructing a better understanding of cultures surrounding the Mediterranean Sea.
University of Michigan archeologists had been anchored by George R. Swain, photographer and auto mechanic.
Photo Credit: The Kelsey Museum
A current employee of the university, Lauren Talalay, has assembled George R. Swain’s photographs from this time-honored expedition into a book, From the Motor City to the Mediterranean: Travels of a Truck, a Sedan and an Inquisitive Photographer. Several of these impressive pictures scrolled at one exhibit.
Who Was George R. Swain?
George R. Swain, expedition photographer, had also been tasked with maintaining the truck and sedan as they coursed through the terrain without roads.
George R. Swain had been to these sites previously, so it made sense to have him take a leadership position.
The Treacherous Travels
Dodge had donated two vehicles for this adventure. But how do you get a truck and sedan to the Mediterranean shore? By boat, of course!
Photo Credit: “From the Motor City to the Mediterranean: Travels of a Truck, a Sedan and an Inquisitive Photographer”
Written by Lauren E. Talalay
Written by Lauren E. Talalay
Camels crossing the expanse of sandy terra alongside the Dodge sedan created dissonance. Centuries old traditions mixed with the latest technology. I marveled at the outstanding curiosity and remarkable bravery of the people demonstrated by this image.
Written by Lauren E. Talalay
My eyes widened when I spied the precariously perched sedan, balanced over two wooden boats. The ingenuity and improvisation that had taken place impressed me as I shook my head in disbelief.
Amazingly, the crew had made it to their sites and back to University of Michigan!
Written by Lauren E. Talalay
Problem solving their transportation debacles had become a regular ritual. I can’t begin to imagine the patience that this journey must have taken! I wish I could have interviewed George Swain to hear his first hand perspective on their insightful journey.
Camping Among Locals
The team had lived among locals for two years. Karanis had been their main excavation site. George R. Swain had captured everyday moments, including a snake charmer.
Photo Credit: “From the Motor City to the Mediterranean: Travels of a Truck, a Sedan and an Inquisitive Photographer”
Written by Lauren E. Talalay
Lauren E. Talalay
My appreciation goes out to Lauren E. Talalay, who has assembled Swain’s photographs into a complete book and created the slide show at the Kelsey Museum!
Lauren E. Talalay currently works at the University of Michigan focused on Neolithic Greece and how the “past is a commodity in modern society.” As U of M archeology work continues, she has completed field work at several Mediterranean sites: Franchthi Cave, Greece, Plakari and on the island of Euboea.
The Kelsey Museum of Archeology paints a complete picture of ancient history. I had been a novice and soaked in the well-presented information. Understanding ancient cultures builds a focused knowledge of today!
Next, I offer a few highlights from the Kelsey Museum of Archeology , but this treasure trove is awe inspiring and should be added to your bucket list!
The Roman Empire Expansion
Beginning in the fourth century Roman troops began to expand their rule. First they overtook Italy, then Greece. Next they conquered the kingdoms of eastern Mediterranean and North Africa before moving into western Europe. Under Emperor Hadrian, AD 117-138, Roman rule had stretched over the largest amount of geography in its history.
Each region had been governed by a Roman magistrate. Men in these areas were forced to serve in the Roman military. Residents had to pay taxes directly to Rome. Construction of Roman infrastructure, roads and aqueducts, had been a benefit to these provinces. Even though Rome ruled, each area held onto its customs throughout the Roman reign.
One example of Roman expansion was a theatre unearthed in Palestine. It was discovered south of Syria along the eastern shore of the Mediterranean Sea.
Roman Theatre Found In Palestine
This gathering arena near Nazareth had been discovered and later unearthed by the University of Michigan team and people from the surrounding communities. This theatre had been dated to the time of King Harold in the first century.
Photo Credit: The Kelsey Museum
“It is believed (the “Ornament of All Galilee”) reveals new facts in the life of Jesus.” stated a 1931 newspaper clipping in the display case alongside these photographs.
Photo Credit: The Kelsey Museum
The Kelsey Museum
The University of Michigan’s excavations also included northern Africa along the western shores of the Mediterranean Sea. The collections of objects at the Kelsey Museum filled us with awe! Admission is free, so we left a donation.
Stay Curious
Exploring the Kelsey Museum brought this century-old expedition to a place of reverence and appreciation. By seeing these objects I now carry a more focused understanding of the Middle East. Chuck was a guide to me as he already carries a detailed comprehension of Roman and Egyptian history.
If you’re interested there are guided tour please call 734-764-9304. Otherwise, it is open for self guided tours Tuesday-Friday 9:00 am-4:00 pm. Saturdays and Sundays the hours are from 11:00 am-4:00 pm. We highly recommend a visit to the University of Michigan’s Kelsey Museum of Archeology!
Together we hold such admiration for George R. Swain, Francis Kelsey and the team of archeologists who had spent two years uncovering hints of culture from centuries ago. We appreciate the curators of the Kelsey! Stay curious and make memories!
Resources:
From the Motor City to the Mediterranean: Travels of a Truck, A Sedan and an Inquisitive Photographer
Written by Lauren E. Talalay
The University of Michigan’s Kelsey Museum of Archaeology 434 South State Street, Ann Arbor, Michigan
The accessible entrance is on Maynard Street.
It is open Tuesday–Friday 9 a.m.–4 p.m. and Saturday–Sunday 11 a.m.–4 p.m.
For a guided tour please call 734-764-9304 to arrange a time.
The Kelsey Blog entry
Lauren Talalay bio University of Michigan
University of Michigan Kelsey Museum Karanis, Egypt article
Karanis Excavations paper report
One thought on “Ancient Artifacts in Michigan”
Very interesting story! I love world history as well as American history. 🤩