Archaeologists are trying to build support from the public to help protect a newly-discovered historical site in Gwinnett County.
The Fort Daniel Archaeological Project sits on private property off Braselton Highway on Hog Mountain.
"There were two forts here, one in the late 1700's and the other in the early 1800's," said lead archaeologist Jim D'Angelo. "The militia built a fort to have a place to defend themselves, to have a trading post and to train."
Work at the site started in 2007, and it's already produced some impressive discoveries: nails, musket balls, glass, pottery and Spanish coins.
On Saturday, children had a chance to do some digging at the Fort Daniel Faire and Public Archaeology Event.
The event was designed to generate more support for the site.
Members of The Fort Daniel Foundation fear the property could be sold and developed.
"I'm very passionate about making sure our history remains," said Shannon Coffey, historian and curator for The Fort Daniel Foundation. "It gives you a sense of place. You don't know where you're going unless you know where you've been."
The Foundation wants to find the money needed to buy and preserve the site. The nonprofit also hopes to build a park, museum and archaeological lab.
"This is valuable," Coffey said. "I hope we can make it happen."
Source: 11 Alive