A Conversation With … Fran Skariot

If not for the curiosity of a Washington County farmer more than 60 years ago, Meadowcroft Rockshelter in Avella might never have come to exist.
That farmer, Albert Miller, stumbled upon what he initially thought was a groundhog hole. Only upon further inspection did he find what later was determined to be a prehistoric tool.
Miller covered the hole back up while he went in search of a professional archaeologist who could further examine the discovery. Almost 20 years later, in 1973, Miller connected with University of Pittsburgh anthropology professor Dr. James Adovasio, who visited Miller’s farm and inspected the area near the hole.
Dr. Adovasio determined that Miller’s discovery was a prehistoric flint knife and gathered a team of archaeology, anthropology and geology students to further research the area. Their study resulted in the discovery of nearly 2 million artifacts and ecofacts, including ancient stone tools, pottery fragments and evidence of ice age fire pits.
Upon further examination, the team determined that the rock ledge overhang was once a campsite for prehistoric hunters and gatherers about 16,000 years ago. Later, in 2005, the U.S. secretary of the interior designated Meadowcroft Rockshelter a National Historic Landmark.
We recently caught up with Fran Skariot, who has been an employee at Meadowcroft Rockshelter since 1974 and has served as the visitors service manager since the late 1980s, to talk more about the landmark’s upcoming 50th season and all that visitors can see and do there.
When was the Meadowcroft Rockshelter discovered?
Albert Miller’s initial discovery was on Nov. 12, 1955. However, archaeologist Dr. James Adovasio began the professional excavation of the site in 1973.
What are some of the most popular exhibits and features for visitors to see?
As a National Historic Landmark, the Rockshelter is certainly something that draws visitors from around the world. Another unique and popular activity is the opportunity to try using the atlatl, a prehistoric spear thrower.
What do you have planned for the summer?
Walk Through Prehistory begins June 9 (and runs) to Sept. 29. Visitors will travel through time on a two-mile hike in the footsteps of our hunter-gatherer predecessors and learn about the flora and fauna the prehistoric people used as a source for food and materials needed to survive. Reservations for this event are required.
The 21st Annual Meadowcroft Atlatl Competition will take place June 16. Beginners are invited to try using the atlatl, a spear-thrower used by prehistoric hunters, and watch some of the world’s best competitors from the world Atlatl Association compete for high score.
An Independence Day Celebration will take place on July 4. Visitors can celebrate the spirit of America with historical demonstrations and period games at Meadowcroft’s new 18th century frontier area and in the 19th century rural village.
A Vintage Base Ball Game will take place on Aug. 18 and will allow visitors to watch base ball (originally two words) 19th century-style with the Somerset Frost Sons of Thunder and the Addison Mountain Stars using rules from the 1860s.
What is so special about the upcoming season?
Meadowcroft Rockshelter is celebrating its 50th season to be open. We are open to the general public from May to October.
How many visitors visit the Rockshelter annually?
We average about 18,000 to 20,000 people a season.
Is there anything new planned for this summer?
We hosted a program in May that featured a special visit from a Shawnee Indian family to demonstrate traditional 18th century life skills. In addition, on Oct. 7, we will be one of the host sites for the statewide Walk in Penn’s Woods. More details about these events can be found on our website.
Are there activities available for kids?
Yes, children also enjoy learning what an atlatl is and how to use it. We also have an 1800s village where they have lessons in one of the school rooms, and can visit a blacksmith and play games in a log house.
How far is Meadowcroft Rockshelter from Pittsburgh?
Meadowcroft is 35 miles from Pittsburgh. It takes about an hour from downtown if traveling I-79 south to Bridgeville, and 50 west to Avella.
What do you hope visitors gain from their visit?
I hope people enjoy their experience as they learn how people lived off the land for 16,000 years.
What is your favorite part of Meadowcroft Rockshelter?
I like that people from all over the world explore our outdoor museum. We cover so many years of history that everyone can find something of interest.