Island's early history the focus of his Ph.D.

Mr. Michael Jarvis, a 26-year old history major at William and Mary College, Virginia, who also has an undergraduate degree in archaeology, says he has spent the last two years researching Bermudian history between 1612 and 1812 and intends to finish writing his dissertation next year.

According to Mr. Jarvis, his inspiration came from the fact that the Bermuda archives contained information dating back to 1616. This is unheard of in the United States where most historical records were destroyed during the American Civil War.

Over the last five years he has worked alongside the Bermuda National Trust on archaeological and historical work in St. George's. He will be here for the next two weeks to help compile sources of information on the American Civil War.

The Bermuda National Trust will be revamping the Confederate Museum in St.

George's and plans to place the emphasis on the Civil War's effect on Bermuda and her people.

Once he has the sources together, two Bermudian students, Ms. Michelle Collier and Ms. Tiefa Trott, will help him research the information and he will return to Bermuda in October and use the material to start constructing exhibits.

Mr. Jarvis is also concerned that many Bermudians know so very little about their history and would like to see more of it being taught in Bermudian schools.

As far as his future is concerned, Mr. Jarvis says he should have finished his doctorate by next year after which he would like to get it published.

Mr. Michael Jarvis