The Deering Estate at Cutler, in partnership with the Archaeological Society of Southern Florida, presents a free lecture on the second Thursday of each month. The next lecture is scheduled for Nov. 8, 7 p.m., in the Visitor Center Auditorium at the Deering Estate at Cutler, 16701 SW 72 Ave. Topic is “Digging Miami” and the presenter is Robert Carr.
The pace of change of Miami since its incorporation in 1896 is staggering. Miami’s development continually erases monuments and traces of indigenous people and historic pioneers while ironically leading to archaeological treasures that have lain undiscovered for centuries.
In “Digging Miami,” Carr traces the rich 11,000-year human heritage of the Miami area from its first inhabitants through the arrival of European settlers and up to the early 20th century. Carr was Dade County’s first archaeologist, later historic preservation director, and held the position at a time when redevelopment efforts unearthed dozens of impressive archaeological sites, including the Cutler site, discovered in 1985, and the controversial Miami Circle, found in 1998. “Digging Miami” presents a unique anatomy of this fascinating city, dispelling the myth that its history is merely a century old.
Currently the executive director of the Archaeological and Historical Conservancy Inc., Carr’s career spans over 30 years. As Dade County’s first archaeologist, he was instrumental in the implementation of the Historical Sites Preservation Ordinance. Carr is a prolific writer, from trade periodicals to technical reports to books.
The Deering Estate at Cutler, a Miami- Dade County Park, is located at 16701 SW 72 Ave. This 444-acre natural and archeological preserve and historic site is listed on the National Register of Historic Places and serves as a center for education, culture and recreation. Historic house tours are offered daily at 10:30 a.m. and 3 p.m. with admission to the estate.
For more information on the Deering Estate’s educational and cultural programs, visit www.deeringestate.org
