Indiana Archaeology Month & Archaeology in Indiana

1. Indiana Archaeology Month & Archaeology in Indiana

2. The DNR’s Division of Historic Preservation and Archaeology (DHPA) is the lead archaeological agency in our state. The State Archaeologist and his archaeological staff members are here to help the public learn more about archaeology. One of the ways we do this is by organizing the annual Indiana Archaeology Month.

3. Indiana Archaeology Month is about the importance of the science of archaeology, and specifically what it can teach us about Indiana’s past. Archaeology Month is the largest yearly archaeology outreach event in Indiana. • Archaeologists study past human cultures and what they left behind, not dinosaurs (that’s paleontology). • Indiana archaeology is not like what you might see in popular movies. In many ways it is much more exciting and challenging!

4. The DNR implements policies, rules and statutes to protect our state’s archaeological sites. • Once sites are gone, they are gone forever, but the information we record remains.

5. Information gained from archaeological sites gives Hoosiers, young and young at heart, an enhanced appreciation and awareness of past cultures and historic events in our state.

6. Archaeology can contribute to young people’s understanding of the past and its importance. • We are learning about the past, and saving what we learn for future generations.

7. Each site is unique. Indiana has some sites, such as the earthworks at Mounds State Park (Anderson), that are so important they are listed in the National Register of Historic Places. The earthworks at Angel Mounds State Historic Site in Evansville are so important nationally that the site has been designated a National Historic Landmark.

8. Cultures of all types are being studied archaeologically in Indiana. These include: Native American, French-Canadian, Irish, African American, and more.

9. Many different types of sites are being investigated. These include sites such as shipwrecks, canal sites, farmsteads, cemeteries, villages and more. Archaeology may be happening right in your own community!

10. Archaeological sites have been identified in every Indiana county. • Even though only a small percentage of the state has been investigated by professional archaeologists, over 49,000 sites have been recorded!

11. The DHPA provides a wide variety of educational materials regarding archaeology. We are continually adding to our archaeological understanding of Indiana, and strive to share what we are learning with others.

12. Indiana Archaeology Month is every September ! It is an important statewide event, and the Governor issues the official Proclamation every year. • Archaeology Month has generated, strengthened, and greatly expanded participation and interest in the stewardship of Indiana’s cultural resources and understanding of archaeology.

13. Join the celebration of Indiana archaeology~ Learn, Participate, Contribute ! There are many ways to participate and much information to gain! Go to one of the many events during the month of September, or host an event!

14. More and More each year ! • In 2003, over 5,400 people attended the 21 single day events and 8 multiple day events held during Archaeology Month. • This year’s event will include a wide variety of hosts and types of activities.

15. Indiana Archaeology Month webpage: Get Info About: • Calendar of Events • Educational Materials • Commemorative poster and shirts • and much more! www.IN.gov/dnr/historic/archeomonth/home.htm

16. For information about archaeology in Indiana, or Indiana Archaeology Month, contact: • Division of Historic Preservation and Archaeology 402 West Washington Street, Room W274 Indianapolis, IN 46204-2739 317/232-1646 www.IN.gov/dnr/historic