Fossil Club members are invited once again to participate in this ever-popular NHSM event!
Among the most important fossil research sites in the Mid-Atlantic region, Stratford Cliffs were formed when land replaced an ancient sea. Fossils found here are from the Miocene Epoch, approximately 17 to 10 million years ago, and indicate an ancient sea filled with primitive shark-toothed porpoises, salt-water crocodiles, sea cows, gopher turtles, rays, whales, and sharks. Thousands of shark teeth have been found at the site, including Carcharodon megalodon, or Giant White Shark, with teeth measuring 7 inches or more!
Located in Montross, VA (on the south side of the Potomac River, adjacent to Westmoreland State Park), these cliffs are part of the Calvert Formation. Most of the land along the shoreline is privately owned, and public access is severely limited, so we are lucky to have this opportunity! Our site is part of the Stratford Hall plantation owned by four generations of the Lee family (and now cared for by the Robert E. Lee Memorial Foundation). The estate encompasses 1900 acres of farmlands and forests on a high bluff overlooking the Potomac River.
Travel time: The site is an estimated 3-hour drive from Baltimore. Guests are responsible for their own transportation; NHSM cannot provide rides. The exact address will be provided to you via email with your registration confirmation.
Difficulty: This field trip is moderately strenuous, involving hiking, cold water, and uncertain weather. Depending on what storms may have impacted the river, there could be washed-up trees and debris on the beach, as well as broken glass. There could be a few scramble spots. However, if you do not want to climb over obstacles, you can remain on the beach that is accessible to you. This is a rain-or-shine event.
Age Restriction: Stratford has a minimum age requirement of 8 years old.
Cancellation Policy: Cancellations made more than one week before the date of the event will result in a refund, minus a 5% processing fee. No refunds can be issued within a week of the event, but the registration can be transferred to a friend.
If NHSM cancels this event, all registration fees will be refunded in full.
If you have questions or concerns about this or other Fossil Club events, please contact the club coordinator (mfalk@marylandnature.org).
Registration
Fossil Club Member: $30
This trip is restricted to fossil club members only.