This month, Indiana will hold events for all ages as part of the 23rd annual statewide celebration of archaeology.
Archaeology Month provides an opportunity to learn about the scientific study of historic or prehistoric peoples and their culture in Indiana. Hoosier history buffs can meet archaeologists and learn about the state’s past.
Events are held every September by universities, museums, organizations and individuals throughout Indiana. The DNR Division of Historic Preservation & Archaeology (DHPA) coordinates Archaeology Month.
A schedule of events and additional information for Archaeology Month can be found at dnr.IN.gov/historic/3674.htm.
On Sept. 29 and 30, Mounds State Park will host an archaeology weekend.
And, throughout the month, the Taylor Center of Natural History at Strawtown Koteewi Park in Hamilton County will host a lecture series. Those lectures are: “Star Bridge: A Mississippian Bastion on La Moine River” on Sept. 8; “Life, Death and Remembrance in Central Indiana: A View from the 19th Century Bethel Cemetery in Decatur Township” on Sept. 15; “Excavating the Reflecting Pool at General Lew Wallace Study and Museum” on Sept. 22; and “A Look at the Clay Human Figurines from the Mann Hopewell Landscape of Southwestern Indiana” on Sept. 29. Each starts at 1 p.m.
Archaeologists have recorded more than 66,600 sites in Indiana since the early 1800s, helping to shape public understanding of the prehistoric and historic people.
“Archaeology can be a fascinating way to learn about our past and how it influences our culture today,” said Cameron Clark, DNR director and State Historic Preservation Officer. “Archaeology Month is a chance for Hoosiers to engage in programs that are not only educational and informative but also fun.”
Celebrating archaeology statewide started in 1996, with Indiana Archaeology Week. In 2002, the celebration was expanded to Indiana Archaeology Month.