INDIANAPOLIS- September is Indiana Archaeology Month. The Division of Historic Preservation & Archaeology (DHPA) coordinates events to encourage learning about Indiana archaeology. Universities, museums, organizations, and individuals throughout the state will host a variety of programs. These can include archaeological laboratory open houses, artifact identifications, lectures on archaeological topics, archaeological excavations, and more.
Archaeology Month helps Hoosiers learn more about the discipline of archaeology, Indiana archaeological sites, and laws protecting those sites. A goal of this month is to increase public awareness and to minimize myths and misconceptions commonly associated with the science.
The DHPA Calendar of Events webpage will post the complete calendar of events taking place around the state. Event hosts may refer the public to this page for information about the Month at www.in.gov/dhpa.
The DHPA has many educational materials available free of charge. If event hosts wish to have any of these items to help with publicity, or to hand out during the event, feel free to download as many as you like. Postage costs will be charged if physical copies are needed. Payment must be received prior to mailing any items.
Cemeteries are examples of Indiana cultural landscapes. The poster theme this year focuses on how archaeologists play important roles in the investigation and documentation of cemeteries.
State laws protect Hoosier cemeteries, and archaeological work is a key component for preserving, documenting and protecting cemeteries. These places are more than just serene landscapes of monuments and memorials of lost loved ones. They are also physical landmarks that provide a connection to the past, preserve the history of communities, reveal cultural practices, and reflect social change. DHPA staff archaeologists help implement cemetery laws (e.g., Indiana Code 14-21-1) through the review of cemetery development plans regarding proposed ground disturbance within 100 feet of cemeteries and work plans regarding their investigation.
2025 is the 30th anniversary of a statewide celebration of archaeology in our state, and they hope you will be able to attend some of the archaeology related events which will be taking place in September.
