1 Old Cahawba Archaeological Park
9518 Cahaba Road
Orrville, Alabama 36767
Housing and Logistics
Housing at Dalwhinnie Fields
Participants in our program stay at Dalwhinnie Fields near Selma, Alabama. Housing is shared, bunkhouse style, and separated by gender identity. The cost of housing is included in the program fee.
Participants have access to on-site Wi-Fi and laundry facilities. Dalwhinnie Fields hosts Selma’s Renaissance Festival and offers evening outdoor activities, including fishing, archery ranges, axe-throwing, horseback riding, and other activities.
Meals & daily life
Meals & cooking facilities
The meal plan is optional, though highly recommended, and costs an additional $125 per week. It is available for the entire session only and cannot be selected week by week.
- Monday–Friday meals are prepared on-site: continental breakfast, sack lunch, and a home-cooked dinner.
- Vegetarian, vegan, and allergy-related dietary requirements can be accommodated if requested in advance.
- Weekend meals are not included.
- Participants have access to a refrigerator and microwave at Dalwhinnie Fields, but no kitchen.
- Selma offers a variety of restaurant options for participants who do not choose the meal plan.
Internet & cell service
Wi-Fi is available at Dalwhinnie Fields, although it can slow down when the entire team uses it at once. Old Cahawba does not have public Wi-Fi.
Cell coverage at Dalwhinnie Fields is generally reliable. Service at Old Cahawba Archaeological Park is inconsistent; plan fieldwork and communications accordingly.
Accessibility & accommodations
Please notify us as early as possible if you need disability accommodations, mobility assistance, or dietary accommodations.
We work individually with participants to determine what can reasonably be provided, including accessible sleeping space, restroom assistance, and modified field tasks. The setting is rustic and field-based, and we cannot guarantee that every accommodation can be provided.
Discuss accommodations with the program directorTravel & schedule
Travel to Selma & airport arrangements
Travel to and from Selma, Alabama, is not covered by program fees. The closest airport is Montgomery Regional Airport (MGM), approximately one hour from Dalwhinnie Fields.
Airport pickup and drop-off can be arranged. Please notify us at least two weeks in advance.
Daily schedule & weekends
Program hours are approximately 8:00 am–4:30 pm, Monday–Friday. Hours may change to accommodate climate and weather.
Weekends are generally off, except for the required Public Archaeology Day on the final Saturday of each session. The meal plan covers Monday–Friday only. Other Saturdays may include optional classes, programs, events, or field trips. These optional activities are not mandatory and may carry additional fees.
Daily transportation & parking
Daily transportation is provided between Dalwhinnie Fields and Old Cahawba Archaeological Park. Participants are encouraged to use this service rather than drive themselves.
Parking is available at both locations, but independent commuting is discouraged.
Two locations, one program
Dalwhinnie Fields provides participant housing. Training takes place at Old Cahawba Archaeological Park, with daily transportation between the two.
Use the location links below to open a map and get directions.
2 Dalwhinnie Fields
1515 Pine Flat Church Rd
Selma, AL
Questions about your stay?
Dr. William Henry
Site Director, Old Cahawba Archaeological Park
william.henry@ahc.alabama.gov
Site Director’s Office: 334-875-2529
Monday–Friday, 9 am–4 pm Central Time
Visitor Center
334-872-8058
Every day, 9 am–4 pm Central Time
Frequently asked questions