A text on the conservation of archaeological artifacts found in fresh water. This practical guide to conservation is the fruit of experience on conservation material from the <i>Rockaway</i>, a schooner which sank in Lake Michigan in 1891. Preservation in the Great Lakes is good because of the cold and depth. This attempts to explain why materials deteriorate under water. The methods of treatment proposed are simple, but need skilled applications. If proper conservation cannot be provided, it is strongly suggested that materials be left under water. Topics covered are: field conservation, ceramics, glass, corrosion processes in fresh water, gold and silver, copper and its alloys, lead, tin and their alloys, iron alloys, paper, wood, rope, textiles, leather, bone, ivory, rubber, and celluloid. The final section covers reagents, solvents and, resins. Attention is focused on the freshwater environment and why some classes of artifact are particularly difficult to preserve. The project was on limited budget but had access to a freeze-dryer.