January 2, 2007
Public invited to explore the fascinating world of archaeology
The public is invited to participate in Public Archaeology Day, spotlighting public archaeology programs throughout the Chesapeake and Middle Atlantic regions. Public Archaeology Day features a wide selection of family activities and curriculum resources for teachers. The program includes demonstrations, hands-on activities, an archaeology video festival, lesson plans for teachers, and opportunities to meet the authors of books on archaeology.
Public Archaeology Day is sponsored by the Society for Historical Archaeology in conjunction with the society’s annual 2007 Conference on Historical and Underwater Archaeology Jan. 10-14, 2007, at the Williamsburg Lodge and Conference Center.
Public Archaeology Day includes a visit from Thomas Jefferson -- sometimes called the father of American archaeology -- who conducted the nation’s first careful scientific excavations in the 1780s. In addition, renowned archaeologist Ivor Noël Hume, retired director of archaeology for Colonial Williamsburg, welcomes the public with a short introduction to the history and importance of archaeology in Virginia. Many of the active archaeology sites in the region will participate with displays and activities for students, teachers and students.
Public Archaeology Day will be held 2 – 5 p.m. Saturday, Jan. 13, 2007, in the Colony Room of the Williamsburg Lodge and Conference Center on South England St. Admission is free. For more information, contact the Society for Historical Archaeology at (301) 990-2454 or email@example.com.
Formed in 1967, the Society for Historical Archaeology is the largest scholarly group concerned with the archaeology of the modern world (A.D. 1400-present). The main focus of the society is the era since the beginning of European exploration. The society promotes scholarly research and the dissemination of knowledge concerning historical archaeology. The society is specifically concerned with the identification, excavation, interpretation, and conservation of sites and materials on land and underwater. Geographically the society emphasizes the New World, but also includes European exploration and settlement in Africa, Asia, and Oceania.
For more information or reservations, call toll-free 1-800-HISTORY or visit Colonial Williamsburg on the Internet at www.ColonialWilliamsburg.com.