Excavating glass and pottery?

[Kevin75931]

Was metal detecting around an early 1900s homestead and found an area full of broken pottery and glass. I used a rake to open up an area and found all kinds of stuff. There was a button, a small arm from a doll, and numerous sized pieces of clay pottery and broken glass.

Has anyone excavated glass and pottery? I know the professionals use a wire rack and sift through the dirt, and I thought about doing that.

The good news:

The place is near my home, as in a 5 minute drive.

I have owners permission,

It is easy to get to; I can drive my truck to within 20 feet of the area.

What is the best way to proceed?

 

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[Professor of Engineering]

The best way is to carefully dig soil and use a sifter rack! Great way to find old coins, jewelry, pottery...etc. This method may seem tedious, but you will not miss anything.
I have used this method many times at old home sites and cellar holes with great success.