Events - Mississippi Valley Archaeology Center

Three people ;ooking at a Munsell soil book.

Updated September 9, 2024

Schedule of Events will be updated throughout the year.
Information about regional archaeology events sponsored by other organizations can be found by visiting MVAC’s Facebook page.

2024

July 15, 2024 - Update

Information on future events will be posted here and on our Facebook page.

February

Senior Moments: Identifying Artifacts

Wednesday, February 21, 2024
10 am at Onalaska Public Library

Come learn to identify ancient spear points and arrowheads in an engaging and educational program led by Jean Dowiasch, Senior Research Archaeologist and Educational Coordinator for the Mississippi Valley Archaeology Center at UW-La Crosse. Senior Moments—learning and entertainment for older adults. Link to more information.

March

Artifact Show

Saturday, March 02, 2024
10 am - 5 pm at Valley View Mall, La Crosse, WI

Lecture - UWL Archaeology Global and Local: Highlighting Two Research and Community Engagement Projects in Serbia and Wisconsin

Tuesday, March 19, 2024
7:30 pm - UWL Centennial Hall, Room 1400

Amy Nicodemus will discuss major findings from five research campaigns at the Bronze Age tell settlement of Rabe Anka Siget, Serbia. This project explores the roots of the dramatic changes that characterize the European Bronze Age, such as the rise of complex metallurgy, trans-continental trade networks, and social inequality. She will also highlight collaborations with Serbian partners, including the development of a joint UWL-University of Belgrade archaeological field school.

Heather Walder will discuss the outcomes of five field seasons of community-engaged collaborative fieldwork with the Red Cliff Band of Lake Superior Chippewa Tribal Historic Preservation Office in Red Cliff, Wisconsin. Together are investigating both ancient and recent historic archaeological sites on the Red Cliff reservation to better understand and protect these significant and sacred places.

Nicodemus is an Associate Professor in the UWL Archaeology and Anthropology department. She has directed the Rabe Anka Siget Archaeological Project (Serbia) since 2017 and co-directed the Pecica Archaeological Project in Romania since 2011.

Walder is an Assistant Teaching Professor in the UWL Archaeology and Anthropology department and a Research Affiliate at the Field Museum in Chicago, Illinois. She has co-directed Geté Anishinaabe Izhichigéwin Community Archaeology Project (GAICAP) since 2018.

Artifact Identification and Archaeology Program

Wednesday, March 27, 2024
3 pm, Black River Falls Public Library Program Room

At 3 p.m., the public is invited to bring in artifacts for identification by Jean Dowiasch, Senior Research Archaeologist & Education Coordinator for the Mississippi Valley Archaeology Center at UW-La Crosse. At 4 p.m., following the artifact identification, there will be an Archaeology Presentation by Jean Dowiasch and Betty & Susan Steele. A portion of the Gary Steele Artifact Collection will also be on display for the public to view. This free event, sponsored by the generous financial support of the Friends of the Black River Falls Public Library, is open to the public and will take place in the Library’s program room. Registration is not required to attend. For more information about this event, please contact the Library at 715-284-4112.

April

UWL Kids' College

April 14, 2023
8:30 a.m. - 2 p.m. - UWL Student Union

Jean Dowiasch will be doing History Beneath your Feet at the UWL Kids’ College on April 14, 2023. The event is for Gifted and Talented Students in grades 5 & 6. Link to more information.

May

Wisconsin Archaeology Month

May 2024

A variety of activities will be offered throughout the state during May to introduce the public to Wisconsin’s long and rich cultural past. Link for a complete list of activities check out the Wisconsin Historical Society’s web site.

Volunteer Field Survey Opportunity for MVAC Members

Saturday, May 4, 2024
8:30 am - 4 pm at University of Wisconsin - La Crosse, Archaeology Center and Laboratories
Fee: Free admission for MVAC members.

MVAC will celebrate Wisconsin Archaeology Month by involving volunteers in surveys of local fields to find unreported archaeological sites. The day will begin with an introduction at the archaeology laboratory, followed by helping with an actual field survey. Participants will end the day back at the lab to wash the artifacts recovered and learn more about their history. The number of participants is limited, so register early. Children may participate if accompanied by an adult. Rain date: Saturday, May 11, 2024. Advance registration required! Call MVAC at 608.785.8454 or email mvac@uwlax.edu to register.

June

Historic Indian Agency House – Archaeology Dig

Saturday-Sunday, June 15-16 and 22-23, 2024
10 am - 4 pm at The Historic Indian Agency House, Portage, WI

Come dig with us! We're in hot pursuit of the hottest place on the hillside: the Agency blacksmith shop. Roll up your sleeves and dig with us into our site's buried history! Come prepared to get dirty, learn a lot, and make great memories through this once in a lifetime opportunity as you and your family help unearth artifacts that may not have been touched by human hands for 200 years or more. Dr. Constance Arzigian, a research archaeologist with the Mississippi Valley Archaeology Center and a senior lecturer in archaeology and anthropology at UW-La Crosse, will lead the dig. Link to more information.

October

International Archaeology Day

Saturday, October 19, 2024

Mississippi Valley Archaeology Center is a Collaborating Organization for the Archaeological Institute of America’s International Archaeology Day on Saturday, October 19, 2024. Link to more information about the day.

Lecture - Ho-Chunk Winter Life in the Driftless Region

Thursday, October 24, 2024
7:30 pm - UWL Centennial Hall, Room 1400

Since the last glaciers receded some 12,000 years ago, Wisconsin's "Driftless Region" has experienced vast changes in its environment. People living on the landscape needed to adapt to those changes, continuing into the four seasons we recognize today. Join us as we explore an Indigenous perspective on how the ancestors of today's Ho-Chunk People "survived" Wisconsin's harsh winters through thousands of years.

William “Nąąwącekǧize” Quackenbush is a Ho-Chunk Deer Clan Tribal Member and serves as the Ho-Chunk Nation's Tribal Historic Preservation Officer (THPO) and Cultural Resources Division Manager, and also as President of the Wisconsin Inter-Tribal Repatriation Committee (WITRC). He is widely known for his work in many aspects of heritage preservation, and in 2024 he received the first-ever Lifetime Achievement Award from the National Association of Tribal Historic Preservation Officers.

2023

October 6, 2023 - Update

Information on future events will be posted here and on our Facebook page.

March

Artifact Show

*Missed MVAC’s 2023 Artifact Show?
If you didn’t get a chance to attend MVAC’s Artifact Show at Valley View Mall - link to see the Artifact Show in 60 seconds.
Jack Larson demonstrated flintknapping throughout the day – link to an introduction to the basics of flintknapping.

Saturday, March 04, 2023
10 am - 5 pm at Valley View Mall, La Crosse, WI

Lecture - The UW MIA Recovery and Identification Project: Bringing Missing Service Members Home

*If you weren’t able to attend the lecture - link to watch the lecture online.

Tuesday, March 7, 2023
7 p.m. Social - UWL Centennial Hall, Hall of Nations
7:30 p.m. Lecture - UWL Centennial Hall, Room 1400

Since 2016, the UW MIA Recovery and Identification Project has been working in Partnership with the Defense POW/MIA Accounting Agency (DPAA) to identify, recover, and repatriate the remains of service members lost during WWII. The project combines archaeological, forensic, and historical research methods to conduct recovery missions in western Europe. This multi-disciplinary approach provides students and volunteers with valuable fieldwork, service, and leadership experiences, and helps fulfill our Nation's promise to bring all of our missing service members home. In this presentation Dr. Gregg Jamison will discuss his experiences serving as the lead archaeologist on the project, including reflections on methods, challenges, successes, and some of the project's future goals.

Dr. Gregg Jamison is an Assistant Professor of Anthropology at the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee at Waukesha. He is the lead archaeologist on the UW MIA Recovery and Identification Project.

Link to The UW MIA Recovery and Identification Project

Link to read more about the project.

April

UWL Kids' College

April 14, 2023
8:30 a.m. - 2 p.m. - UWL Student Union

Jean Dowiasch will be doing History Beneath your Feet at the UWL Kids’ College on April 14, 2023. The event is for Gifted and Talented Students in grades 5 & 6. Link to more information.

May

Wisconsin Archaeology Month

May 2023

Volunteer Field Survey Opportunity for MVAC Members

Saturday, May 6, 2023
8:30 am - 4 pm at University of Wisconsin - La Crosse, Archaeology Center and Laboratories
Fee: Free admission for MVAC members.

MVAC will celebrate Wisconsin Archaeology Month by involving volunteers in surveys of local fields to find unreported archaeological sites. The day will begin with an introduction at the archaeology laboratory, followed by helping with an actual field survey. Participants will end the day back at the lab to wash the artifacts recovered and learn more about their history. The number of participants is limited, so register early. Children may participate if accompanied by an adult. Rain date: Saturday, May 13, 2023. Advance registration required! Call MVAC at 608.785.8454 or email mvac@uwlax.edu to register.

June

Galesville Founders Day Celebration

June 17, 2023

MVAC’s Connie Arzigian will be at the Gallesville Founders Day Celebration demonstrating Native American Games. Link to the Galesville Area Chamber of Commerce website for more information.

July

UWL Hands-On Science

July 12–13, 2023 at UW-La Crosse
A science day-camp for kids entering grades 6–8

Hands-On Science encourages interests in science and math by giving you hands-on learning and activities in an environment that is supportive, enriching and—most importantly—fun! Participants work with UW-La Crosse faculty and staff who encourage experimentation, investigation and involvement in the fields of math and science.

Making Bones Speak
Connie Arzigian, Ph.D. – Archaeology and Anthropology
Ever wondered how scientists identify someone just from their bones? In this workshop, we’ll look at some (replica) human bones that were found in the woods. You’ll figure out the sex, age, height, and ancestry of the person, to help identify the remains for the police, and see how forensic scientists work.

Link for more information.

Youth Outdoor Fest

Saturday, July 15, 2023
10 am - 2 pm at Pettibone Park, La Crosse, WI

MVAC’s Jean Dowiasch will be at the event sharing some Native American artifacts and games, as well as information on Archaeology as a career, and on the Archaeological Studies program at UWL.

Link for more information.

August

Historic Indian Agency House – Archaeology Dig

Saturday-Sunday, August 5-6 and 12-13, 2023
10 am - 4 pm at The Historic Indian Agency House, Portage, WI

September

Spear and Arrowhead Identification

Tuesday, September 5, 2023
7 pm at Vernon County Historical Society, 410 S. Center Ave., Viroqua, WI

As students head back to school this fall, the Vernon County Museum and History Center will present a special educational opportunity for people of all ages. Come learn to identify ancient spear points and arrowheads in a hands-on class held on Tuesday, September 5, at 7PM. Jean Dowiasch, Senior Research Archaeologist and Educational Coordinator for the Mississippi Valley Archaeology Center at UW-La Crosse, will lead this program. Link to more information.

October

Lecture - Scanning the Pharaohs: Using Digital Technologies to Document Ancient Egypt

Tuesday, October 17, 2023
7:30 pm - UWL Centennial Hall, Room 1400

With advances in technology, the ability to capture the three dimensional geometry of items from the past has become increasing available to archaeologists working across the globe. Using 3D scanning techniques, archaeologists are able to not only document the past in more detail than ever, but the techniques also provide for new and interesting ways through which to present the past to scholars, students and the public at large. Dr. David Anderson will discuss the ways in which he and others are using these technologies to document the tombs, temples, and artifacts of Egyptian Civilization.

Dr. David A. Anderson is an Associate Professor of Archaeology at UWL, the President of the Board of Governors of the American Research Center in Egypt, and a research associate of the Section of Anthropology of the Carnegie Museum of Natural History. He is an archaeologist with over 35 years of experience working in Egypt and North American and is the director of the University of Wisconsin-La Crosse El-Mahâsna Archaeological Project and Director of Digital Documentation for the Johns Hopkins University/University of Liverpool Mut Temple Precinct Project at South Karnak.

Archaeology Meet & Greet @ the Library!

Wednesday, October 25, 2023
11:45 am to 12:45 pm at Black River Falls Public Library

Join MVAC's Jean Dowiasch on October 25th for an Archaeology Meet & Greet at the Black River Falls Public Library. Jean will be identifying artifacts and the Gary Steele Artifact Collection will be on display. Call 715-284-4112 for more information.

2022

MVAC 40th Anniversary logo October 17, 2022 - Update

Information on future events will be posted here and on our Facebook page.

July

Youth Outdoor Fest

Saturday, July 9, 2022
10 am to 2 pm at Pettibone Park, 374 S Pettibone Drive, La Crosse, WI

MVAC’s Connie Arzigian will be at the event sharing some Native American artifacts and games, as well as information on Archaeology as a career, and on the Archaeological Studies program at UWL. Link to more information.

Folk Life La Crosse

Sunday, July 17, 2022
10 am to 3 pm at Historic Hixton House Museum, 429 7th St. North, La Crosse, WI

Visit with local artisans that practice old-time crafts and skills. Watch them work and experience their trades hands-on. Held on the lawn of Historic Hixon House, you will find something for everyone of all ages at this free event! MVAC's Connie Arzigian will have artifacts on display and be demonstrating Native American games. Jack Larson will be demonstrating flintknapping - how stone tools are made. Link for more information.

August

Historic Indian Agency House – Archaeology Dig

Saturday-Sunday, August 6-7 and 13-14, 2022
10 am - 4 pm at The Historic Indian Agency House, Portage, WI

Come dig with us! We're in hot pursuit of the hottest place on the hillside: the Agency blacksmith shop. Roll up your sleeves and dig with us into our site's buried history! Come prepared to get dirty, learn a lot, and make great memories through this once in a lifetime opportunity as you and your family help unearth artifacts that may not have been touched by human hands for 200 years or more. Dr. Constance Arzigian, a research archaeologist with the Mississippi Valley Archaeology Center and a senior lecturer in archaeology and anthropology at UW-La Crosse, will lead the dig. Link to more information.

October

MAC logo Midwest Archaeological Conference

Thursday-Saturday, October 13-15, 2022
La Crosse Convention Center

The Mississippi Valley Archaeology Center and the University of Wisconsin-La Crosse are pleased to announce that registration and paper submissions are now open for the 2022 Midwest Archaeological Conference, October 13–15. Events will be held at the La Crosse Center, in downtown La Crosse, Wisconsin, on the banks of the Mississippi River. The conference hotel will be the Radisson, attached to the La Crosse Center. Link to the annual meeting information page for details.

Archaeology Meet & Greet @ the Library!

Wednesday, October 19, 2022
11:15 am - 12:15 pm at Black River Falls Public Library, Black River Falls, WI

Join MVAC's Jean Dowiasch on October 19th for an Archaeology Meet & Greet at the Black River Falls Public Library. Jean will be identifying artifacts and the Gary Steele Artifact Collection will be on display. Call 715-284-4112 for more information.

2021

April

Excavation of the Lessard Site (47CR660) in Prairie du Chien, Wisconsin

Thursday, April 8, 2021 at 8:00 pm (Wisconsin time)
Google Meet (meet.google.com/jta-cmzn-tgn)

MVAC’s Senior Research Archaeologist, Vicki Twinde-Javner, will give a virtual lecture for the Indian Peaks Chapter- Colorado Archaeology Society on Phase III archaeological excavations at the Lessard Cabin site, in Prairie du Chien, Wisconsin. Link to more information.

Link to view lecture on YouTube.

July

Historic Indian Agency House – Archaeology Dig

Saturday-Sunday, July 10-11 and 17-18, 2021
10 am - 4 pm at The Historic Indian Agency House, Portage, WI

2020

Changing Landscapes and pre-European Native Americans in the Driftless Area: A Brief Overview

Wednesday, February 12, 2020
7:00 pm at Rooted Spoon Kitchen Table, Viroqua Public Market

MVAC’s Dr. James Theler, will be giving a presentation for the Valley Stewardship Network as a part of their Conservation on Tap Series at the Rooted Spoon Kitchen Table, Viroqua Public Market, 219 South Main St, Viroqua, Wisconsin 54665. For additional information call 608.637.3615 or email info@valleystewardshipnetwork.org.

Artifact Show

Saturday, March 07, 2020
10 am - 5 pm at Valley View Mall, La Crosse, WI

CANCELLED - Lecture - The UW MIA Recovery and Identification Project: Bringing Missing Service Members Home

Thursday, March 26, 2020
7:30 pm at UWL Student Union, room 3310

Due to the rapidly developing Coronavirus situation, we have cancelled our March 26, 2020 lecture with Gregg Jamison. We will be rescheduling for a date to be determined in the future. Please check this web page and MVAC's Facebook page for updates on upcoming MVAC events.

Dr. Gregg Jamison is an Assistant Professor of Anthropology at the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee at Waukesha. He is the lead archaeologist on the UW MIA Recovery and Identification Project.

Link to read more about the project.

Wisconsin Archaeology Month

May 2020

CANCELLED - Volunteer Field Survey Opportunity for MVAC Members

Saturday, May 02, 2020
8:30 am - 4 pm at University of Wisconsin - La Crosse, Archaeology Center and Laboratories
Fee: Free admission for MVAC members.

MVAC will celebrate Wisconsin Archaeology Month by involving volunteers in surveys of local fields to find unreported archaeological sites. The day will begin with an introduction at the archaeology laboratory, followed by helping with an actual field survey. Participants will end the day back at the lab to wash the artifacts recovered and learn more about their history. The number of participants is limited, so register early. Children may participate if accompanied by an adult. Rain date: Saturday, May 9, 2020. Advance registration required! Call MVAC at 608.785.8454 or email mvac@uwlax.edu to register.

CANCELLED - Youth Outdoor Fest

Saturday, July 11, 2020
10 am - 2 pm at Veterans Freedom Park, La Crosse, WI

MVAC’s Connie Arzigian will be at the event sharing some Native American artifacts and games, as well as information on Archaeology as a career, and on the Archaeological Studies program at UWL.

CANCELLED - Experimental Archaeology - grades 4-6

Monday, July 13, 2020
9 am - 3 pm at University of Wisconsin - La Crosse, Wimberly Hall, room 312

Learn how stone tools were made and how Native Americans used them. Take a nature hike through the marsh to explore food, shelter, and tools Wisconsin’s first people could have used. Try playing the chunky game and making pottery. Cancellations prior to June 29 will receive a full refund minus a $40 cancellation fee. No refunds for cancellations after June 29.

Age: Students entering grades 4-6
Fee: $80
Note: Bring a lunch, drink, snacks and water bottle.

For registration information please contact the: University of Wisconsin - La Crosse, Office of Continuing Education and Extension, 608.785.6500
Online registration at: https://www.uwlax.edu/ex/archaeology-workshops/
For information on activity content please contact: MVAC's Public Outreach Program at 608.785.8454 or email mvac@uwlax.edu

CANCELLED - Public Archaeology Field Schools (3 day experience) - adults and high school students

Monday-Wednesday, July 13-15, 2020
July 13, 2020: 9 am–5 pm; July 14–15, 2020: 7 am–3:30 pm at University of Wisconsin La Crosse, Student Union, room 3110

This multi-day field and lab experience is a well-rounded opportunity for those who want to learn about the process of archaeology. Work alongside professional archaeologists on an actual archaeological excavation and survey work. Lab work may include washing and sorting ceramics, stone tools, and other remains. An experimental archaeology component may explore making stone tools and using an atlatl (spearthrower). Optional lab hours and local field trips will be available after regular field school hours. No previous experience is necessary.

This experience is open to high school students through adults. Fee includes a one-year MVAC membership. Supervised dorm facilities are available for high school students at an additional cost of $225 for 3 days and $335 for 5 days. Cancellation prior to June 15 will receive a full refund minus a $100 cancellation fee. No refunds for cancellations after June 15.

Fee: $350

For registration information please contact the: University of Wisconsin - La Crosse, Office of Continuing Education and Extension, 608.785.6500
Online registration at: https://www.uwlax.edu/ex/archaeology-workshops/
For information on activity content please contact: MVAC's Public Outreach Program at 608.785.8454 or email mvac@uwlax.edu.

CANCELLED - Public Archaeology Field Schools (5 day experience) - adults and high school students

Monday-Friday, July 13-17, 2020
July 13, 2020: 9 am–5 pm; July 14–17, 2020: 7 am–3:30 pm at University of Wisconsin La Crosse, Student Union, room 3110

Fee: $500

For registration information please contact the: University of Wisconsin - La Crosse, Office of Continuing Education and Extension, 608.785.6500
Online registration at: https://www.uwlax.edu/ex/archaeology-workshops/
For information on activity content please contact: MVAC's Public Outreach Program at 608.785.8454 or email mvac@uwlax.edu.

CANCELLED - Introduction to Archaeology - grades 5-9

Tuesday, July 14, 2020
9 am–3 pm at University of Wisconsin - La Crosse, Wimberly Hall, room 312

Explore MVAC’s Archaeology Lab and work with artifacts recovered from area excavations as an introduction to the science of archaeology. Discover how the first Native Americans in Wisconsin survived, using the area’s natural resources. Students must take this class in order to attend the Middle School Field Experience. This program takes place in the classroom. It does not include excavation activities. Cancellations prior to June 29 will receive a full refund minus a $40 cancellation fee. No refunds for cancellations after June 29.

Age: Students entering grades 5-9
Fee: $80
Note: Bring a lunch, drink, snacks, and a water bottle.

For registration information please contact the: University of Wisconsin - La Crosse, Office of Continuing Education and Extension, 608.785.6500
Online registration at: https://www.uwlax.edu/ex/archaeology-workshops/
For information on activity content please contact: MVAC's Public Outreach Program at 608.785.8454 or email mvac@uwlax.edu.

CANCELLED - Middle School Field Experience – grades 5-9

Wednesday-Thursday, July 15-16, 2020
9 am–3 pm at University of Wisconsin - La Crosse, Wimberly Hall, room 312

Take your excitement for archaeology into the field! Students who have taken MVAC’s Introduction to Archaeology class in the past can join a La Crosse area project. Participants will work alongside professional archaeologists in the field. Activities may include shovel testing or small-scale excavations. Weather may require alternate activities. Cancellations prior to June 29 will receive a full refund minus an $80 cancellation fee. No refunds for cancellations after June 29.

Age: Students entering grades 5-9
Fee: $200 (includes travel fee)
Note: Bring a lunch, drink, snacks, water bottle, insect repellent, sun screen. Wear comfortable walking shoes and clothes that can get dirty.
Prerequisite: MVAC's Introduction to Archaeology class

For registration information please contact the: University of Wisconsin - La Crosse, Office of Continuing Education and Extension, 608.785.6500
Online registration at: https://www.uwlax.edu/ex/archaeology-workshops/
For information on activity content please contact: MVAC's Public Outreach Program at 608.785.8454 or email mvac@uwlax.edu.

CANCELLED - Open House - MVAC Archaeology Field School

Thursday, July 16, 2020
10 am - 2 pm at TBD

See what the MVAC Public Field School participants are doing this summer! Stop by on Thursday, July 16, between 10 am and 2 pm. Check back for more information.

Historic Indian Agency House – Archaeology Dig

Saturday-Sunday, July 18-19, 2020
10 am - 4 pm at The Historic Indian Agency House, Portage, WI

The Historic Indian Agency House is in hot pursuit of the hottest place on the hillside this summer: the 1830s agency blacksmith shop. An archaeological excavation which had originally been scheduled for June has now been rescheduled to take place July 18-19 and 25-26 from 10 am to 4 pm each day. Dr. Constance Arzigian, a research archaeologist with the Mississippi Valley Archaeology Center and a senior lecturer in archaeology and anthropology at UW-La Crosse, will lead the dig in July.

The public is invited to participate right alongside the archaeologists. Live blacksmithing demonstrations are also being planned for those weekends for spectators to enjoy. Adults and children ages five and up with the direct supervision of a responsible adult are welcomed to try their hand at a variety of tasks from digging to screening and more. Participants will be guided through a 15-minute “Archaeology Boot Camp” to prepare them before they roll up their sleeves to help excavate the site’s buried history.

A Historic Indian Agency House membership is required to participate in the dig. Memberships may be purchased ahead of time or at the door. The cost is $15 for an individual or $36 for a family. Memberships also include free admission to all on-site events during the 2020 season and a free tour which may be taken either in person or in a live virtual format. The public may spectate for free. However, since social distancing will be observed during the event, those with memberships will take precedence if visitor numbers must be limited at any given time.

Adam Novey, Executive Director and Curator of the Historic Indian Agency House, suggests keeping an eye on the Agency House’s “Archaeology at the Agency” web page for details and updates, especially as the pandemic presents challenges and requires flexibility and understanding on the part of everyone.

Prehistoric Archaeology

Tuesday, July 21, 2020
6:30 pm at The Historic Indian Agency House, Portage, WI

MVAC's Connie Arzigian will present on the critical thinking involved in prehistoric archaeology. When studying an era before written records, skilled interpretation is required. Dr. Arzigian will explore how archaeologists interpret artifacts to arrive at their conclusions. Free admission. Link to more information.

Historic Indian Agency House – Archaeology Dig

Saturday-Sunday, July 25-26, 2020
10 am - 4 pm at The Historic Indian Agency House, Portage, WI

International Archaeology Day

Saturday, October 17, 2020

CANCELLED - Annual Awards and Lecture - The Kensington Runestone and Golf Balls on the Moon

Thursday, October 29, 2020
Social 6:30 pm, Awards 7 pm, Lecture 7:30 pm at UWL Student Union, room 3310

In 1898 Olaf Ohman, a Swedish immigrant farmer, claimed he discovered a stone covered with Norse runic letters on his farm near Kensington, Minnesota. His discovery didn’t get much attention until Hjalmar Holand, a Wisconsin historian interested in Scandinavian immigration, promoted it as an authentic relic dating to 1362. Throughout the 20th century, support for the Kensington Runestone’s authenticity waxed and waned. In the early 21st century, the Runestone found new champions in Scott Wolter, the president of a cement testing company in Minneapolis, and Richard Nielson, a Texas engineer. The authenticity of the Kensington stone continues to be debated, although interest in the stone has once again waned as Wolter has moved on to reality TV stardom and Nielson has died. Arguments for and against the Kensington Runestone will be presented in the contexts of archaeology, history, linguistics, geography, pseudoscience, common sense, and Scandinavian humor.

Scott Anfinson is the former Minnesota State Archaeologist and author of several archaeology publications.

2019

Lecture - Effigy Mound Ceremonial Landscapes

Thursday, February 21, 2019
7:30 pm at UWL Student Union, room 3310

Effigy mounds — mounds of earth sculpted in the shape of birds, bears, and other animals and figures — are concentrated in southern Wisconsin. Built between circa 700 and 1100 A.D., they were often burial places. While researchers have learned a lot about these mounds over the years, explanations of their meaning remain elusive.

Drawing on archaeological and other anthropological information on Native American religion and worldviews, Robert A. Birmingham, lecturer at the University of Wisconsin-Waukesha, will share the idea that often vast effigy mound arrangements are ceremonial landscapes.

Birmingham, who is a former Wisconsin State Archaeologist, says these ceremonial landscapes reflected a religious movement in which key powerful spirits were periodically animated in places where the spirits dwell to bring blessings to humans by renewing the world and to carry the dead in cycle of death and rebirth. He will also share a hypothesis for why this might have been done in a specific geographic area in the Midwest. Now retired, he continues to write public-oriented books on various archaeological and historical and topics.

Artifact Show

Saturday, March 02, 2019
10 am - 5 pm at Valley View Mall, La Crosse, WI

Forests, Fields and Floods: Muddy Perspectives on Cahokia, a Prehistoric City on the Mississippi

Thursday, April 25, 2019
2:15 pm at University of Wisconsin La Crosse, Student Union Theater, room 0120
Lecture is free and open to the public.

Lecture co-sponsored by UWL Department of Archaeology & Anthropology. Lecture by Samuel Muñoz, Ph.D., Assistant Professor, Marine and Environmental Systems at Northeastern University.

Night at the Museum

Friday, April 26, 2019
5-7 pm at Riverside Museum in La Crosse's Riverside Park

MVAC’s Connie Arzigian will be presenting interactive archaeology activities at the La Crosse County Historical Society’s Night at the Museum. Activities are designed for preschool and elementary age children and their families. Link for more information.

Wisconsin Archaeology Month

May 2019

Volunteer Field Survey Opportunity for MVAC Members

Saturday, May 04, 2019
8:30 am - 4 pm at University of Wisconsin - La Crosse, Archaeology Center and Laboratories
Fee: Free admission for MVAC members.

MVAC will celebrate Wisconsin Archaeology Month by involving volunteers in surveys of local fields to find unreported archaeological sites. The day will begin with an introduction at the archaeology laboratory, followed by helping with an actual field survey. Participants will end the day back at the lab to wash the artifacts recovered and learn more about their history. The number of participants is limited, so register early. Children may participate if accompanied by an adult. Rain date: Saturday, May 11, 2019. Advance registration required! Call MVAC at 608.785.8454 or email mvac@uwlax.edu to register.

Archaeology Meet and Greet

Monday, May 13, 2019
3:30 - 6 pm at Black River Falls Public Library

Gary Steele’s artifact collection will be on display at the Black River Falls Public Library during the event. Mississippi Valley Archaeology Center’s Dr. Connie Arzigian will be available (3:30-6 pm) to identify artifacts brought in by the public. Susan Steele will be selling and signing copies of her book about her father, Gary Steele entitled Alzheimer’s, Archaeology, and the Armed Forces. The Black River Falls Public Library is located at 222 Fillmore St., Black River Falls, WI.

Folk Life La Crosse

Saturday, July 13, 2019
10 am - 3 pm at Hixon House, 429 7th St. N., La Crosse, WI

MVAC's Connie Arzigian will be demonstrating the chunkey game at Folk Life La Crosse.

Egypt - grades 4-6

Monday, July 15, 2019
9 am - 3 pm at University of Wisconsin - La Crosse, Wimberly Hall, room 312

Learn about mummies, pyramids, and the people who lived in Egypt at the time of the pharaohs! Hands-on activities will include making a mummy case and mask, and writing a message in hieroglyphics. Cancellations prior to June 28 will receive a full refund minus a $40 cancellation fee. No refunds for cancellations after June 28.

Age: Students entering grades 4-6
Fee: $80
Note: Bring a lunch, drink, snacks and water bottle.

For registration information please contact the: University of Wisconsin - La Crosse, Office of Continuing Education and Extension, 608.785.6500
Online registration at: https://www.uwlax.edu/ex/archaeology-workshops/
For information on activity content please contact: MVAC's Public Outreach Program at 608.785.8454 or email mvac@uwlax.edu.

Public Archaeology Field Schools (3 day experience) - adults and high school students

Monday-Friday, July 15-17, 2019
July 15, 2019: 9 am–5 pm; July 16–17, 2019: 7 am–3:30 pm at University of Wisconsin La Crosse, Student Union, room 3110

This field and lab experience is a well-rounded opportunity for those who want to learn about the process of archaeology. Work alongside professional archaeologists on an actual archaeological excavation and survey work. Lab work may include washing and sorting ceramics, stone tools, and other remains. An experimental archaeology component may explore making stone tools and using an atlatl (spearthrower). Optional lab hours and local field trips will be available after regular field school hours. No previous experience is necessary.

This experience is open to high school students through adults. Fee includes a one-year MVAC membership. Supervised dorm facilities are available for high school students at an additional cost of $225 for 3 days and $335 for 5 days. Cancellation prior to June 14 will receive a full refund minus a $100 cancellation fee. No refunds for cancellations after June 14.

Fee: $350

For registration information please contact the: University of Wisconsin - La Crosse, Office of Continuing Education and Extension, 608.785.6500
Online registration at: https://www.uwlax.edu/ex/archaeology-workshops/
For information on activity content please contact: MVAC's Public Outreach Program at 608.785.8454 or email mvac@uwlax.edu.

Public Archaeology Field Schools (5 day experience) - adults and high school students

Monday-Friday, July 15-19, 2019
July 15, 2019: 9 am–5 pm; July 16–19, 2019: 7 am–3:30 pm at University of Wisconsin La Crosse, Student Union, room 3110

This experience is open to high school students through adults. Fee includes a one-year MVAC membership. Supervised dorm facilities are available for high school students at an additional cost of $225 for 3 days and $335 for 5 days. Cancellation prior to June 14 will receive a full refund minus a $100 cancellation fee. No refunds for cancellations after June 14.

Fee: $500

For registration information please contact the: University of Wisconsin - La Crosse, Office of Continuing Education and Extension, 608.785.6500
Online registration at: https://www.uwlax.edu/ex/archaeology-workshops/
For information on activity content please contact: MVAC's Public Outreach Program at 608.785.8454 or email mvac@uwlax.edu.

Introduction to Archaeology - grades 5-9

Tuesday, July 16, 2019
9 am–3 pm at University of Wisconsin - La Crosse, Wimberly Hall, room 312

Explore MVAC’s Archaeology Lab and work with artifacts recovered from area excavations as an introduction to the science of archaeology. Discover how the first Native Americans in Wisconsin survived, using the area’s natural resources. Students must take this class in order to attend the Middle School Field Experience. This program takes place in the classroom. It does not include excavation activities. Cancellations prior to June 28 will receive a full refund minus a $40 cancellation fee. No refunds for cancellations after June 28.

Age: Students entering grades 5-9
Fee: $80
Note: Bring a lunch, drink, snacks, and a water bottle.

For registration information please contact the: University of Wisconsin - La Crosse, Office of Continuing Education and Extension, 608.785.6500
Online registration at: https://www.uwlax.edu/ex/archaeology-workshops/
For information on activity content please contact: MVAC's Public Outreach Program at 608.785.8454 or email mvac@uwlax.edu.

Middle School Field Experience – grades 5-9

Wednesday-Thursday, July 17-18, 2019
9 am–3 pm at University of Wisconsin - La Crosse, Wimberly Hall, room 312

Take your excitement for archaeology into the field! Students who have taken MVAC’s Introduction to Archaeology class in the past can join a La Crosse area project. Participants will work alongside professional archaeologists in the field. Activities may include shovel testing or small-scale excavations. Weather may require alternate activities. Cancellations prior to June 28 will receive a full refund minus an $80 cancellation fee. No refunds for cancellations after June 28.

For registration information please contact the: University of Wisconsin - La Crosse, Office of Continuing Education and Extension, 608.785.6500
Online registration at: https://www.uwlax.edu/ex/archaeology-workshops/
For information on activity content please contact: MVAC's Public Outreach Program at 608.785.8454 or email mvac@uwlax.edu.

Open House - MVAC Archaeology Field School

Thursday, July 18, 2019
10 am - 2 pm at Goose Island County Park

See what the MVAC Public Field School participants are doing this summer! Stop by on Thursday, July 18, between 10 am and 2 pm. The Open House will be held at Goose Island County Park, on the Mississippi River just south of La Crosse. Once in the park, follow the signs to where we’ll be working. Call MVAC at 608.785.6473 or email MVAC@uwlax.edu for more information.

Life of the Ancient Ones

Saturday, August 10, 2019
6:30 pm at Perrot State Park, Trempealeau, WI

Join MVAC’s Connie Arzigian for a look into the lives of the early people who once lived in Perrot State Park and surrounding area. View examples of artifacts and throw an atlatl.

Whitewater Valley Archaeology and History Festival

Saturday, September 14, 2019
Noon - 3 pm at Whitewater State Park

MVAC’s Jean Dowiasch will be demonstrating the atlatl at the Whitewater Valley Archaeology and History Festival between noon and 3 pm. Come and practice your skills with the atlatl. Celebrate the fascinating history of the Whitewater Valley! Through demonstrations, hands-on activities and special guest presenters, visitors will be transported back in time. Pick up a schedule at the park office. Directions: Located 3 miles south of Elba on State Highway 74.

La Crosse Indigenous Peoples' Day Celebration

Monday, October 14, 2019
Noon - 6 pm at Myrick Park, La Crosse, Wisconsin

The event celebrate the indigenous peoples of the world featuring Native American, Hmoob, and Latinx. MVAC staff will be present with displays and demonstrations.

13,000 Years in Adams County

Wednesday, October 16, 2019
4 - 6 pm at Adams County Library, 569 N. Cedar St., Adams, WI

Ever wondered who did the rock paintings at Roche-a-Cri State Park? Is there an old mound on your property that really doesn’t look like it was made by nature? Did your grandfather leave you a box of rocks that might be arrowheads?

For answers to these and other questions, Adams County Library invites you to a discussion on Wisconsin archaeology with Dr. Connie Arzigian. Dr. Arzigian will talk about the prehistory of the area, using authentic Wisconsin artifacts to demonstrate how Native American stone tools look and were manufactured. She invites people to bring items from their personal collections for her to inspect. She may be able to provide information about their age and use.

Dr. Arzigian is an expert on Midwestern archaeology and paleoecology, examining subsistence and settlement systems, and the origins of agriculture. She is a Senior Lecturer in the Archaeology and Anthropology Department at the University of Wisconsin–La Crosse, and a Research Archaeologist with the Mississippi Valley Archaeology Center at UW-L. Dr. Arzigian is an active field archaeologist, running archaeological field schools every summer through the UW-La Crosse.

The talk will be Wednesday, October 16, 4 – 6 pm at the Community Center, room 145B. Everyone is welcome. If time permits, Dr. Arzigian will demonstrate flint knapping techniques.

For further information, please contact Erin Foley at the Library, at 608.339.4250.

International Archaeology Day

Saturday, October 19, 2019

Silver Mound - Fall 2019 WAS Meeting - Open to Public

Saturday, October 19, 2019
10 am - 4 pm at Alma Center KOA, N9657 WI-95, Alma Center, WI 54611

This year’s Wisconsin Archeological Society Fall Field Assembly is co-sponsored by the Mississippi Valley Archaeological Center and will be held at Silver Mound, one of the largest, oldest, and most important archaeological sites in the Midwest. Silver Mound was designated a National Historic Landmark in 2006. “Hixton Silicified Sandstone,” the stone found at Silver Mound, was used by Native Peoples for nearly 12,000 years. Activities/displays include: flintknapping artifact identification, atlatl throwing, Native American games, and local artifact collections. Guided tours of prehistoric rock shelters, rock art locations, and quarry pits. Link to more information.

Annual Awards and Lecture – Prehistoric Archaeology at 120': Investigating 9,000 Year Old Hunting Sites Beneath the Great Lakes

Thursday, November 07, 2019
Social 6:30 pm, Awards 7 pm, Lecture 7:30 pm at UWL Student Union, room 3310

At the end of the last Ice Age, the newly formed Great Lakes oscillated between levels that were much higher and much lower than today. During the low water stage, a feature known as the Alpena-Amberley Ridge divided the Lake Huron basin and provided a continuous corridor between southern Ontario and northern Lower Michigan. This talk will describe recent research focused on discovering and investigating hunting sites and other cultural features from this era that are preserved beneath modern Lake Huron. These finds provide important new insights into the lives of early Great Lakes hunters, and one that could only be recovered underwater.

John O'Shea is the Curator of Great Lakes Archaeology at the University of Michigan Museum of Anthropology, and the Emerson F. Greenman Collegiate Professor of Archaeology in the university’s Department of Anthropology.

Link to TEDx talk by John O’Shea.

2018

Lecture - The Development of Two Early Urban Centers in Upper Egypt During the 3rd Millennium BCE – The Towns of Edfu and Dendara

Wednesday, February 28, 2018
7:30 pm at UWL Main Hall Auditorium

Geomorphological and archaeological data from the recent fieldwork conducted at the ancient cities of Tell Edfu and Dendara provide new insights into the evolving landscape of the dynamic floodplain and its influence on the long-term development of these early urban centers. At both sites it has been possible to excavate specific areas of the settlement that had been founded directly on the natural sand and bedrock during the late Old Kingdom. At Edfu we now know that the Old Kingdom town gradually expanded westwards making best use of the flood-free zone, which can be seen by the newly excavated settlement quarter dating to the 5th Dynasty, being situated in close proximity to the much later Ptolemaic temple. Further expansion of the town occurred during the end of the Old Kingdom/early First Intermediate Period, a time that has usually been associated with political and economic crises that might have been triggered by a short term climate change. By this time the town had reached its maximum northern and western limit, which remained relatively stable for centuries to come. The ancient city Dendara also saw a major expansion at the end of the 3rd millennium BCE to the east of the temple enclosure during the First Intermediate Period, and the new fieldwork conducted at the site offers a glimpse of the organization of this new town quarter in a previously unsettled area. These two examples, Tell Edfu and Dendara, are particularly interesting since this time frame corresponds to a politically troubled period that led to a fragmented state with several power centers. However, from an urban perspective, cities in southern Egypt seem to have seen a phase of expansion during this time. This presentation will also further examine the layout and organization of the respective town quarters at Edfu and Dendara.

Dr. Nadine Moeller is Associate Professor of Egyptian Archaeology, The Oriental Institute / Department of Near Eastern Languages and Civilizations, University of Chicago.

Lecture - The King Khufu’s Harbor at Wadi al-Jarf on the Red Sea and Its Link to the Great Pyramid at Giza

Thursday, March 01, 2018
4:00 pm at UWL Centennial Hall Auditorium 1400

Since 2011, a joint team of the Paris-Sorbonne University and the French Institute in Cairo (IFAO), supported by the CNRS and the French Ministry for Foreign Affairs, has been excavating an exceptional harbor complex from the early Old Kingdom at Wadi al-Jarf along the Egyptian coast of the Red Sea.

Considered now as the oldest harbor in the world, it was used for a short time as a departure point to the Sinai Peninsula for Royal expeditions on the way to the regions of Serabit al-Khadim and Wadi Maghara, the principal mining areas for copper and turquoise during the Pharaonic times.

According to the pottery and epigraphy, this massive installation dates back to the very beginning of the Fourth Dynasty. In 2013 the site received a special reputation after the discovery of several hundreds of fragments of narrative and administrative papyri, the oldest inscribed papyri ever discovered in Egypt so far. Some clearly name King Khufu and give important details and describe activities in close relation to the construction of the Great Pyramid at Giza.

This lecture will first focus on the latest archaeological discoveries at the Wadi al-Jarf and then provide a new overview on some of the papyri, which underline a complex organization and well-structured logistics for the royal projects and expeditions 4600 years ago.

Dr. Gregory Marouard is Research Associate in Egyptian Archaeology, The Oriental Institute, University of Chicago.

Artifact Show

Saturday, March 03, 2018
10 am - 5 pm at Valley View Mall, La Crosse, WI

Night at the Museum

Friday, April 27, 2018
5-7 pm at Riverside Museum in La Crosse's Riverside Park

Wisconsin Archaeology Month

May 2018

Volunteer Field Survey Opportunity for MVAC Members

Saturday, May 05, 2018
8:30 am - 4 pm at University of Wisconsin - La Crosse, Archaeology Center and Laboratories
Fee: Free admission for MVAC members.

MVAC will celebrate Wisconsin Archaeology Month by involving volunteers in surveys of local fields to find unreported archaeological sites. The day will begin with an introduction at the archaeology laboratory, followed by helping with an actual field survey. Participants will end the day back at the lab to wash the artifacts recovered and learn more about their history. The number of participants is limited, so register early. Children may participate if accompanied by an adult. Rain date: Saturday, May 12, 2018. Advance registration required! Call MVAC at 608.785.8454 or email mvac@uwlax.edu to register.

Archaeology Meet and Greet

Tuesday, May 08, 2018
2-5 pm at Black River Falls Public Library

Gary Steele’s artifact collection will be on display at the Black River Falls Public Library during the event. Mississippi Valley Archaeology Center’s Dr. Connie Arzigian will be available to identify artifacts brought in by the public. Susan Steele will be selling and signing copies of her book about her father, Gary Steele entitled Alzheimer’s, Archaeology, and the Armed Forces. The Black River Falls Public Library is located at 222 Fillmore St., Black River Falls, WI.

Temples & Tombs of the Americas - grades 4-6

Monday, July 16, 2018
9 am - 3 pm at University of Wisconsin - La Crosse, Wimberly Hall, room 312

Discover the unique cultures of the Maya, Inca, and Aztecs of Mesoamerica and South America. These early Americans had spectacular buildings, written languages, and complex warrior rituals. Hands-on activities will include writing hieroglyphics, making a mask, and more! Cancellations prior to June 29 will receive a full refund minus a $40 cancellation fee. No refunds for cancellations after June 29.

Age: Students entering grades 4-6
Fee: $80
Note: Bring a lunch, drink, snacks and water bottle.

For registration information please contact the: University of Wisconsin - La Crosse, Office of Continuing Education and Extension, 608.785.6500.
Online registration at: https://www.uwlax.edu/ex/archaeology-workshops/
For information on activity content please contact: MVAC's Public Outreach Program at 608.785.8454 or email mvac@uwlax.edu.

Public Archaeology Field Schools (3 day experience) - adults and high school students

Monday-Wednesday, July 16-18, 2018
July 16, 2018: 9 am–5 pm; July 17–18, 2018: 7 am–3:30 pm at University of Wisconsin La Crosse, Student Union, room 3110

Fee: $350

For registration information please contact the: University of Wisconsin - La Crosse, Office of Continuing Education and Extension, 608.785.6500
Online registration at: https://www.uwlax.edu/ex/archaeology-workshops/
For information on activity content please contact: MVAC's Public Outreach Program at 608.785.8454 or email mvac@uwlax.edu.

Public Archaeology Field Schools (5 day experience) - adults and high school students

Monday-Friday, July 16-20, 2018
July 16, 2018: 9 am–5 pm; July 17–20, 2018: 7 am–3:30 pm at University of Wisconsin La Crosse, Student Union, room 3110

Fee: $500

For registration information please contact the: University of Wisconsin - La Crosse, Office of Continuing Education and Extension, 608.785.6500
Online registration at: https://www.uwlax.edu/ex/archaeology-workshops/
For information on activity content please contact: MVAC's Public Outreach Program at 608.785.8454 or email mvac@uwlax.edu.

Introduction to Archaeology - grades 5-9

Tuesday, July 17, 2018
9 am–3 pm at University of Wisconsin - La Crosse, Wimberly Hall, room 312

Age: Students entering grades 5-9
Fee: $80
Note: Bring a lunch, drink, snacks, and a water bottle.

For registration information please contact the: University of Wisconsin - La Crosse, Office of Continuing Education and Extension, 608.785.6500
Online registration at: https://www.uwlax.edu/ex/archaeology-workshops/
For information on activity content please contact: MVAC's Public Outreach Program at 608.785.8454 or email mvac@uwlax.edu.

Middle School Field Experience – grades 5-9

Wednesday-Thursday, July 18-19, 2018
9 am–3 pm at University of Wisconsin - La Crosse, Wimberly Hall, room 312

For registration information please contact the: University of Wisconsin - La Crosse, Office of Continuing Education and Extension, 608.785.6500
Online registration at: https://www.uwlax.edu/ex/archaeology-workshops/
For information on activity content please contact: MVAC's Public Outreach Program at 608.785.8454 or email mvac@uwlax.edu.

Open House - MVAC Archaeology Field School

Thursday, July 19, 2018
10 am - 2 pm at Goose Island County Park

See what the MVAC Public Field School participants are doing this summer! Stop by on Thursday, July 19, between 10 am and 2 pm. The Open House will be held at Goose Island County Park, on the Mississippi River just south of La Crosse. Once in the park, take the road to Hunter’s Point Boat Landing. Look for the parking area on the right side of the road near Bathhouse 3 at the southern end of the campground. You’ll see us working to the east of the parking area. Goose Island County Park map. Call MVAC at 608.785.6473 or email MVAC@uwlax.edu for more information.

Garbology

Friday, July 27, 2018
10 am - noon at Vernon County Museum

MVAC’s Jean Dowiasch will be offering a youth “Garbology” activity at the Vernon County Museum. Space is limited, fee and registration required. Link to more information.

Perrot State Park - Celebrate 100 years of History, Nature, and Recreation

Saturday, August 04, 2018
10 am - 2:30 pm at Perrot State Park, Trempealeau, WI

Throughout the event MVAC’s Jean Dowiasch will be demonstrating Native American games and have artifacts from the area’s early inhabitants on display. Robert Keiper will also be there demonstrating flintknapping.

Whitewater Valley Archaeology and History Festival

Saturday, September 08, 2018
Noon - 3 pm at Whitewater State Park

MVAC’s Connie Arzigian will be demonstrating the atlatl at the Whitewater Valley Archaeology and History Festival between noon and 3 pm. Come and practice your skills with the atlatl. Celebrate the fascinating history of the Whitewater Valley! Through demonstrations, hands-on activities and special guest presenters, visitors will be transported back in time. Hike the historic Elba Fire Tower or take a self-guided walk through a nearby pioneer cemetery. Try your hand at atlatl throwing, paddling a canoe or making twine from wood nettle fibers. Check out flint knapping demonstrations and the kids and play pioneer games. End the day with a guided walk around the former Civilian Conservation Corps camp and home of the German POWs who stayed here. Pick up a schedule at the park office. Directions: Located 3 miles south of Elba on State Highway 74. More Information: call 507.312.2300 or visit.

International Archaeology Day

Saturday, October 20, 2018

Mississippi Valley Archaeology Center is a Collaborating Organization for the Archaeological Institute of America’s International Archaeology Day on Saturday, October 20, 2018. Link to more information about the day.

Annual Awards and Lecture – A 40-Year Archaeological Journey Across the Driftless Area

Tuesday, November 13, 2018
Social 6:30 pm, Awards 7 pm, Lecture 7:30 pm at UWL Student Union Theater

This public program will provide a summary of Robert “Ernie” Boszhardt's career in the rugged, unglaciated portion of western Wisconsin. It will review highlights of his nearly 30 years with MVAC, including discoveries such as Oneota ridged agricultural fields at Sand Lake, Paleoindian quarry complexes at Silver Mound, Tainter Cave and other rock art sites, and recognition of an Effigy Mound territorial boundary. The talk will also summarize more recent research, including continued rock art discoveries along the eastern edge of the Driftless Area, Effigy Mound discoveries in the Bad Axe Valley using LIDAR technology, and ongoing exploration of a major early Mississippian colony at Trempealeau. Copies of his books will be available.

2017

Lecture - Late Prehistoric Native American Village in Downtown Onalaska

Tuesday, January 17, 2017
6:30 pm at Onalaska Public Library

Archaeologists Kathy Stevenson and Wendy Holtz-Leith will discuss the site, including excavations at the Great River Landing location last summer. Stevenson is Operations Manager at the Mississippi Valley Archaeology Center at the University of Wisconsin-La Crosse, and Holtz-Leith is an MVAC Senior Research Archaeologist. Typical artifacts from the village will be displayed.

Area residents are invited to bring local archaeological finds for identification to the meeting, which is free and open to the public. This event is hosted by the Onalaska Area Historical Society.

Artifact Show

Saturday, March 04, 2017
10am - 5pm at Valley View Mall, La Crosse, WI

Come to Valley View Mall and see artifacts representing the area’s long history. Local collectors will display their personal collections, and MVAC staff will bring artifacts recovered from local excavations. Archaeologists will be on hand to answer questions. Bring in your own artifacts for help in their identification. Geri Schrab and Robert “Ernie” Boszhardt, coauthors of Hidden Thunder: Rock Art of the Upper Midwest, will be present for a book signing from noon to 3 pm. Susan Steele, author of Alzheimer's, Archaeology, and the Armed Forces, will be present all day for a book signing. Robert Keiper will be demonstrating flintknapping from 11 am to noon. Call MVAC at 608.785.8454 or email mvac@uwlax.edu if you would like to display your artifacts.

Lecture – At the Crossroads of Europe: Pecica-Şanţul Mare (Romania) and the Rise of Bronze Age Civilization

Tuesday, April 18, 2017
7:30 pm at UWL Student Center, room 3310

The Carpathian Basin lies at the nexus of major trade routes connecting the Mediterranean to the North Sea and the vast Eurasian steppes to western Europe. Consequently, it has long played a critical role in the innovation and spread of new ideas and technologies. One such pivotal period was the Early Bronze Age, when the region acted as a principal hub for the production and trade of valuable goods, especially metals. At this time, the fortified tell settlement of Pecica-Şanţul Mare (Romania) emerged not only as an economic center, but also developed complex social, political, and ritual institutions, foreshadowing transformations that become hallmarks of later Bronze Age civilizations. Dr. Amy Nicodemus is an Assistant Professor in the UWL, Department of Archaeology & Anthropology and a MVAC Research Associate. Call MVAC at 608.785.6473 or email mvac@uwlax.edu for more information.

Night at the Museum

Friday, April 28, 2017
5-7 pm at Riverside Museum in La Crosse's Riverside Park

Wisconsin Archaeology Month

Monday, May 01, 2017

Archaeology Meet and Greet

Wednesday, May 03, 2017
2:00-5:00 pm, 5:30 pm presentation at Black River Falls Public Library

Gary Steele’s artifact collection will be on display at the Black River Falls Public Library during the event. Mississippi Valley Archaeology Center’s Dr. Connie Arzigian will be available to identify artifacts brought in by the public. Susan Steele will be selling and signing copies of her new book about her father, Gary Steele entitled Alzheimer’s, Archaeology, and the Armed Forces. Connie Arzigian and Woodrow White will be giving a presentation at 5:30 pm. The Black River Falls Public Library is located at 222 Fillmore St., Black River Falls, WI.

Volunteer Field Survey Opportunity for MVAC Members

Saturday, May 06, 2017
8:30 am - 4 pm at University of Wisconsin - La Crosse, Archaeology Center and Laboratories
Fee: Free admission for MVAC members.

MVAC will celebrate Wisconsin Archaeology Month by involving volunteers in surveys of local fields to find unreported archaeological sites. The day will begin with an introduction at the archaeology laboratory, followed by helping with an actual field survey. Participants will end the day back at the lab to wash the artifacts recovered and learn more about their history. The number of participants is limited, so register early. Children may participate if accompanied by an adult. Rain date: Saturday, May 13, 2017. Advance registration required! Call MVAC at 608.785.8454 or email mvac@uwlax.edu to register.

Arrowheads, Rocks & Dinosaurs - grades 4-6

Monday, July 17, 2017
9 am - 3 pm at University of Wisconsin - La Crosse, Wimberly Hall, room 312

What’s the difference between a geologist, archaeologist and paleontologist? You’ll find out by taking this introduction to the sciences. Check out real artifacts and fossils from Wisconsin and learn about past people, dinosaurs, rocks and the earth. Hands-on activities emphasized. Cancellations prior to June 30 will receive a full refund minus a $40 cancellation fee. No refunds for cancellations after June 30.

Age: Students entering grades 4-6
Fee: $80
Note: Bring a lunch, drink, snacks and water bottle.

For registration information please contact the: University of Wisconsin - La Crosse, Office of Continuing Education and Extension, 608.785.6500.
Online registration at: https://www.uwlax.edu/ex/archaeology-workshops/
For information on activity content please contact: MVAC's Public Outreach Program at 608.785.8454 or email mvac@uwlax.edu.

Public Archaeology Field Schools (3 day experience) - adults and high school students

Monday-Wednesday, July 17-19, 2017
July 17, 2017: 9 am–5 pm; July 18–19, 2017: 7 am–3:30 pm at University of Wisconsin La Crosse, Student Center, room 3110

This experience is open to high-school students through adults. Fee includes a one-year MVAC membership. Supervised dorm facilities are available for high-school students at an additional cost of $225 for 3 days and $335 for 5 days. Cancellation prior to June 16 will receive a full refund minus a $100 cancellation fee. No refunds for cancellations after June 16.

Fee: $350

For registration information please contact the: University of Wisconsin - La Crosse, Office of Continuing Education and Extension, 608.785.6500.
Online registration at: https://www.uwlax.edu/ex/archaeology-workshops/
For information on activity content please contact: MVAC's Public Outreach Program at 608.785.8454 or email mvac@uwlax.edu.

Public Archaeology Field Schools (5 day experience) - adults and high school students

Monday-Friday, July 17-21, 2017
July 17, 2017: 9 am–5 pm; July 18–21, 2017: 7 am–3:30 pm at University of Wisconsin La Crosse, Student Center, room 3110

Fee: $500

For registration information please contact the: University of Wisconsin - La Crosse, Office of Continuing Education and Extension, 608.785.6500.
Online registration at: https://www.uwlax.edu/ex/archaeology-workshops/
For information on activity content please contact: MVAC's Public Outreach Program at 608.785.8454 or email mvac@uwlax.edu.

Introduction to Archaeology - grades 5-9

Tuesday, July 18, 2017
9 am–3 pm at University of Wisconsin - La Crosse, Wimberly Hall, room 312

Explore MVAC’s Archaeology Lab and work with artifacts recovered from area excavations as an introduction to the science of archaeology. Discover how the first Native Americans in Wisconsin survived using the area’s natural resources. Students must take this class in order to attend the Middle School Field Experience. This program takes place in the classroom. It does not include excavation activities. Cancellations prior to June 30 will receive a full refund minus a $40 cancellation fee. No refunds for cancellations after June 30.

Age: Students entering grades 5-9
Fee: $80
Note: Bring a lunch, drink, snacks, and a water bottle.

For registration information please contact the: University of Wisconsin - La Crosse, Office of Continuing Education and Extension, 608.785.6500.
Online registration at: https://www.uwlax.edu/ex/archaeology-workshops/
For information on activity content please contact: MVAC's Public Outreach Program at 608.785.8454 or email mvac@uwlax.edu.

Middle School Field Experience – grades 5-9

Wednesday-Thursday, July 19-20, 2017
9 am–3 pm at University of Wisconsin - La Crosse, Wimberly Hall, room 312

Take your excitement for archaeology into the field! Students who have taken MVAC’s Introduction to Archaeology class in the past can join a La Crosse area project. Participants will work alongside professional archaeologists in the field. Activities may include shovel testing or small-scale excavations. Weather may require alternate activities. Cancellations prior to June 30 will receive a full refund minus an $80 cancellation fee. No refunds for cancellations after June 30.

For registration information please contact the: University of Wisconsin - La Crosse, Office of Continuing Education and Extension, 608.785.6500.
Online registration at: https://www.uwlax.edu/ex/archaeology-workshops/
For information on activity content please contact: MVAC's Public Outreach Program at 608.785.8454 or email mvac@uwlax.edu.

Open House - MVAC Archaeology Field School

Thursday, July 20, 2017
10 am - 2 pm at Goose Island County Park, Hunters Point
Adult/Family, Teachers, Youth

See what the MVAC summer Public Field School participants have been doing! Stop by on Thursday, July 20, between 10 am and 2 pm. The Open House will be held at Goose Island County Park, on the Mississippi River just south of La Crosse. We will be working at Hunters Point boat landing prior to some park improvements. Previous investigations at the site found artifacts from a Woodland campsite-flakes and some grit-tempered pottery. We may also investigate a nearby Historic Euro-American cabin/homestead site. Call MVAC at 608.785.6473 or email MVAC@uwlax.edu for more information.

Archaeology Festival

Saturday, September 09, 2017
10 am - 4 pm at Whitewater State Park

MVAC’s Connie Arzigian will be demonstrating the atlatl at the Whitewater Valley Archaeology and History Festival between noon and 3 pm. Come and practice your skills with the atlatl. The festival will celebrate the fascinating history of the Whitewater Valley. Through demonstrations, hands-on activities and special guest presenters, visitors will be transported back in time. Try your hand at archery or atlatl throwing. Try paddling a canoe or starting a fire with flint and steel. Tour the former camp of the Civilian Conservation Corps and the German POWs who stayed here. Visit the historic Marnach House or take a selfie with Smokey Bear at the Elba Fire Tower. Pick up a schedule of the day's activities at the park office. Directions: Located 3 miles south of Elba on State Highway 74. More Information: call 507.932.3007.

Senior Excursion - Includes Stop at Perrot State Park

Thursday, October 05, 2017
9 am - 5 pm at Bus Trip

This day-long senior bus excursion offers numerous stops including a short stop at Perrot State Park where MVAC’s Wendy Holtz-Leith will discuss the early people of the area. The excursion is offered by the City of La Crosse Parks, Recreation, & Forestry.

International Archaeology Day

Saturday, October 21, 2017

Mississippi Valley Archaeology Center is a Collaborating Organization for the Archaeological Institute of America’s International Archaeology Day on Saturday, October 21, 2017. Link to more information about the day.

Prehistoric Technology Day

Saturday, October 28, 2017
10 am - 2 pm at Perrot State Park, Trempealeau, WI

In conjunction with International Archaeology Day the UWL Archaeology & Anthropology Club will be hosting a Prehistoric Technology Day. The event will include atlatl throwing, flintknapping, pottery making, pottery firing, and pumpkin carving using flakes/stone tools. This event is open to the public.

Annual Awards and Lecture – Great Lakes Shipwrecks of Wisconsin

Thursday, November 02, 2017
Social 6:30 pm, Awards 7 pm, Lecture 7:30 pm at UWL Student Union, room 3310

Dive into the history hidden beneath the waves with Wisconsin Historical Society's maritime archaeologist, Tamara Thomsen. Explore Wisconsin's Great Lakes shipwrecks through underwater video, historic photographs and archaeological discoveries! Learn how the Wisconsin Historical Society documents these time capsules of our maritime past. Call MVAC at 608.785.6473 or email mvac@uwlax.edu for more information.

2016

Artifact Show

Saturday, March 05, 2016
10am - 5pm at Valley View Mall, La Crosse, WI

Lecture - Geology of the Ice Age National Scenic Trail

Tuesday, April 05, 2016
7:30 pm at Affeldt Auditorium - 1309 Centennial Hall, UWL

David Mickelson, Ph.D., is a glacial geologist from the UW-Madison and the co-author of the book “Geology of the Ice Age National Scenic Trail.” About 25,000 years ago glaciers covered more than two thirds of what is now Wisconsin, creating the glacial landforms encountered across much of the state. The 1000-mile Ice Age National Scenic Trail highlights many of these Ice Age features as it winds its way through Wisconsin. This talk will explain the formation of moraines, kettles, outwash plains, lake plains, drumlins, eskers and tunnel channels using images of modern glaciers as well as many photos and maps from Wisconsin.

Mississippi Valley Archaeology Center and UWL Department of Archaeology & Anthropology are sponsors of this event.

The Archaeology in Our Backyards: Windows to the Past in Urban La Crosse

Thursday, April 14, 2016
7:00 pm at Wisconsin Historical Society Auditorium

Katherine Stevenson of the Mississippi Valley Archaeology Center as she explores the challenges and triumphs of archaeology in an urban environment. The greater La Crosse urban area is built on one of the most extensive sets of late Pre-Contact Native villages in Wisconsin. From one back yard to the next, urban archaeology is exposing glimpses of ancient village life.

Native American Foods

Tuesday, April 19, 2016
10:30 am at Myrick Park Center, La Crosse, WI

For hundreds of years, spring has been a very busy time of the year for farmers in the La Crosse area. Approximately 700 years ago, the first true farming communities were established by the Native Americans in La Crosse. In this lecture, you will learn about the crops these farmers grew, including corn. We will look at how corn developed from a grass in Central America to one of the most abundant food sources in the world. We will also look at other crops that the early Native Americans grew and the exploration of wild resources. Presenter is Wendy Holtz-Leith, research archaeologist at MVAC.

Lecture - Digging Up the Facts: Archaeology, Crime Fiction, and Science

Tuesday, April 26, 2016
7:00 pm at University of Wisconsin - La Crosse, Graff Main Hall, Auditorium

Archaeology often serves as a backdrop for mystery novels and crime fiction, and the most successful examples are steeped in realism and authenticity. Join crime novelist Mary Anna Evans as she discusses her award-winning Faye Longchamp archaeological mystery series, focusing on the importance of facts in writing an entertaining story. Evans, an assistant professor of professional writing at the University of Oklahoma, credits her training in engineering for helping her write about science for a mainstream audience. Her work has been recognized for its blend of historical accuracy, literary quality, and entertainment value by numerous organizations such as the Florida Historical Society, the Mississippi Library Association, the American Booksellers Association, and others. Book signing after lecture. Call MVAC at 608.785.6473 or email mvac@uwlax.edu for more information.

Wisconsin Archaeology Month

May 2016

Archaeology Event

Tuesday, May 03, 2016
2:30-5:30 pm, 6 pm presentation at Black River Falls Public Library

Gary Steele’s artifact collection will be on display at the Black River Falls Public Library during the event. Mississippi Valley Archaeology Center’s Dr. Connie Arzigian will be available to identify artifacts brought in by the public. Susan Steele will be selling and signing copies of her new book about her father, Gary Steele entitled Alzheimer’s, Archaeology, and the Armed Forces. Connie Arzigian and Susan Steele will be giving a presentation at 6 pm. The Black River Falls Public Library is located at 222 Fillmore St., Black River Falls, WI.

Volunteer Field Survey Opportunity for MVAC Members

Saturday, May 07, 2016
8:30 am - 4 pm at University of Wisconsin - La Crosse, Archaeology Center and Laboratories
Fee: Free admission for MVAC members.

MVAC will celebrate Wisconsin Archaeology Month by involving volunteers in surveys of local fields to find unreported archaeological sites. The day will begin with an introduction at the archaeology laboratory, followed by helping with an actual field survey. Participants will end the day back at the lab to wash the artifacts recovered and learn more about their history. The number of participants is limited, so register early. Children may participate if accompanied by an adult. Advance registration required! Call MVAC at 608.785.8454 or email mvac@uwlax.edu to register.

Experimental Archaeology - grades 4-6

Monday, July 18, 2016
9 am - 3 pm at University of Wisconsin - La Crosse, Wimberly Hall, room 312

Learn how stone tools were made and how Native Americans used them. Take a nature hike through the marsh to explore food, shelter, and tools Wisconsin’s first people could have used. Try playing the chunky game and making pottery. Cancellations prior to July 1 will receive a full refund minus a $40 cancellation fee. No refunds for cancellations after July 1.

Age: Students entering grades 4-6
Fee: $80
Note: Bring a lunch, drink, snacks and water bottle.

For registration information please contact the: University of Wisconsin - La Crosse, Office of Continuing Education and Extension, 608.785.6504
Online registration at: https://www.uwlax.edu/ex/archaeology-workshops/
For information on activity content please contact: MVAC's Public Outreach Program at 608.785.8454 or email mvac@uwlax.edu.

Public Archaeology Field Schools (3 day experience) - adults and high school students

Monday-Wednesday, July 18-20, 2016
July 18, 2016: 9 am–5 pm; July 19–20, 2016: 7 am–3:30 pm at University of Wisconsin La Crosse, Cartwright Center, room 259

This experience is open to high-school students through adults. Fee includes a one-year MVAC membership. Supervised dorm facilities are available for high-school students at an additional cost of $225 for 3 days. Cancellation prior to June 17 will receive a full refund minus a $100 cancellation fee. No refunds for cancellations after June 17.

Fee: $350

For registration information please contact the: University of Wisconsin - La Crosse, Office of Continuing Education and Extension, 608.785.6504
Online registration at: https://www.uwlax.edu/ex/archaeology-workshops/
For information on activity content please contact: MVAC's Public Outreach Program at 608.785.8454 or email mvac@uwlax.edu.

Public Archaeology Field Schools (5 day experience) - adults and high school students

Monday-Friday, July 18-22, 2016
July 18, 2016: 9 am–5 pm; July 19–22, 2016: 7 am–3:30 pm at University of Wisconsin La Crosse, Cartwright Center, room 259

This experience is open to high-school students through adults. Fee includes a one-year MVAC membership. Supervised dorm facilities are available for high-school students at an additional cost of $335 for 5 days. Cancellation prior to June 17 will receive a full refund minus a $100 cancellation fee. No refunds for cancellations after June 17.

Fee: $500

For registration information please contact the: University of Wisconsin - La Crosse, Office of Continuing Education and Extension, 608.785.6504
Online registration at: https://www.uwlax.edu/ex/archaeology-workshops/
For information on activity content please contact: MVAC's Public Outreach Program at 608.785.8454 or email mvac@uwlax.edu.

Introduction to Archaeology - grades 5-9

Tuesday, July 19, 2016
9 am–3 pm at University of Wisconsin - La Crosse, Wimberly Hall, room 312

Explore MVAC’s Archaeology Lab and work with artifacts recovered from area excavations as an introduction to the science of archaeology. Discover how the first Native Americans in Wisconsin survived using the area’s natural resources. Students must take this class in order to attend the Middle School Field Experience. Cancellations prior to July 1 will receive a full refund minus a $40 cancellation fee. No refunds for cancellations after July 1.

Age: Students entering grades 5-9
Fee: $80
Note: Bring a lunch, drink, snacks, and a water bottle.

For registration information please contact the: University of Wisconsin - La Crosse, Office of Continuing Education and Extension, 608.785.6504
Online registration at: https://www.uwlax.edu/ex/archaeology-workshops/
For information on activity content please contact: MVAC's Public Outreach Program at 608.785.8454 or email mvac@uwlax.edu.

Middle School Field Experience – grades 5-9

Wednesday-Thursday, July 20-21, 2016
9 am–3 pm at University of Wisconsin - La Crosse, Wimberly Hall, room 312

Take your excitement for archaeology into the field! Students who have taken MVAC's Introduction to Archaeology class in the past can join a La Crosse area project. Participants will work alongside professional archaeologists in the field. Activities may include shovel testing or small-scale excavations. Weather may require alternate activities. Cancellations prior to July 1 will receive a full refund minus an $80 cancellation fee. No refunds for cancellations after July 1.

For registration information please contact the: University of Wisconsin - La Crosse, Office of Continuing Education and Extension, 608.785.6504
Online registration at: https://www.uwlax.edu/ex/archaeology-workshops/
For information on activity content please contact: MVAC's Public Outreach Program at 608.785.8454 or email mvac@uwlax.edu.

Open House - MVAC Archaeology Field School

Thursday, July 21, 2016
10 am - 2 pm at Norskedalen Heritage Farm (Skumsrud)

See what the MVAC summer Public Field School participants have been doing! Stop by on Thursday, July 21, between 10 am and 2 pm at the Norskedalen Heritage Farm (Skumsrud) to see the ongoing fieldwork and collections of materials that have been recovered in the past. In case of rain, we’ll be inside working with the collections. The Norskedalen Heritage Farm (Skumsrud) is 1/2 mile west of Coon Valley, WI on Hwy 14/61. Check MVAC’s website for updated information at: mvac.uwlax.edu. Call MVAC at 608.785.6473 or email mvac@uwlax.edu for more information.

Archaeology Festival

Saturday, September 10, 2016
10 am - 4 pm at Whitewater State Park

MVAC’s Connie Arzigian will be demonstrating the atlatl at the Whitewater Valley Archaeology Festival between noon and 3 pm. Come and practice your skills with the atlatl. The festival will celebrate the unique human history of the Whitewater River. Throughout the day there will be special speakers and presenters offering a variety of programs and activities for all ages to enjoy. Some activities will include tours of the former camp of the CCC and German POWs, try your hand at archery and atlatl throwing, observe traditional fire starting and flintknapping techniques, visit the Marnach pioneer house and Smokey Bear at the Elba Fire Tower. Directions: Located 3 miles south of Elba on State Highway 74. More Information: call 507-932-3007.

Did Polynesians Reach the New World? South American Sweet Potatoes in the Pacific Islands.

Wednesday, September 28, 2016
7:30 pm at UWL, Centennial Hall, room 1400
Lecture is free and open to the public.
Upcoming lecture by UWL Archaeology & Anthropology Department

Sweet potatoes are a New World crop, yet we find them in prehistoric contexts in the Pacific Islands. How did they get there? Weighing evidence derived from archaeology, physical anthropology, linguistics and cultural anthropology (as well as ethnobotany, ethnohistory), this presentation concludes that the most plausible explanation is that ancient Polynesian voyagers reached the South American coast, and brought them back to Polynesia.

Presenter: Dr. Rich Scaglion, UCIS Research Professor, University of Pittsburgh, Department of Anthropology

International Archaeology Day

Saturday, October 15, 2016

Mississippi Valley Archaeology Center is a Collaborating Organization for the Archaeological Institute of America’s International Archaeology Day on Saturday, October 15, 2016. Link for more information about the day.

Annual Awards and Lecture - Heard But No Longer Seen: Epitaphs as a Window into the Lives of Roman Children

Thursday, November 17, 2016
Social 6 pm, Awards 6:30 pm, Lecture 7 pm at University of Wisconsin - La Crosse, Cartwright Center, Port O'Call

Understanding the daily lives of ordinary people in ancient times is a challenge for historians and archaeologists—especially when the subject is infants and children. The Romans opened a special window into the lives of these little ones by leaving information literally chiseled in stone. Ironically, most of what we know about the lives of Roman children—especially those of the lower classes—comes from funerary engravings, or epitaphs. Dr. Nicholas Gresens, Senior Lecturer in Classics at the University of Rochester–New York, will discuss the fascinating world of Roman epitaphs, comparing those of children and adults, and those of lower-class children and their wealthier peers, to explore how childhood was constructed and perceived in ancient times. Call MVAC at 608.785.6473 or email mvac@uwlax.edu for more information.

2015

Lecture - Booting Up Humanity

Thursday, February 19, 2015
7:00 pm at University of Wisconsin - La Crosse, Cartwright Center, Valhalla

The origin of our species was surprisingly complex. We have within us the genes of ancient Africans, Neandertals, and a mysterious population known as the Denisovans. Only a relative handful of genetic changes mark humans today as different from these ancient people. So how did the characteristics of modern humans, including complex social systems, symbolic thought, and language, evolve? New discoveries point in a surprising direction: Modern humans used a diversity of genes in a common social environment to bootstrap themselves to humanity. With the origin of modern human behavior, cultural evolution began to direct our genetic evolution, with rapid and unprecedented results.

Professor John Hawks is an expert on human evolution and genetics, best known for his work demonstrating the recent rapid evolution of humans within the past 10,000 years and for exploring the contribution of ancient Neandertals to the ancestry of people living today. He has done fieldwork in Africa, Asia, and Europe, combining skeletal evidence from fossils with new information from genetics to uncover how humans evolved. His weblog is one of the top international resources on human evolution and genetics. Call MVAC at 608.785.8454 or email mvac@uwlax.edu for more information.

Speaker: Dr. John Hawks, Associate Professor of Anthropology, UW–Madison

Artifact Show

Saturday, March 14, 2015
10am - 5pm at Valley View Mall, La Crosse, WI

Lecture - Pre-European People on Brice Prairie: 13,000 years of Adaptation from Big Game Hunters to the Region's First Farmers

Saturday, March 21, 2015
10:30 am at Upper Mississippi River National Wildlife and Fish Refuge

Mastodon bones. Stone tools. Engraved pottery. What do these items have in common? These artifacts provide a glimpse into the lives of early peoples in the Brice Prairie area, weaving a story of what attracted people to this area, how they utilized the land, and how their lives compare to ours today. An illustrated talk by Dr. Connie Arzigian, archaeologist at the University of Wisconsin-La Crosse and Mississippi Valley Archaeology Center, will discuss how people lived in this area, used the local resources, and how their way of life changed over time. Examples of different tools and pottery will be on display. This program will be best enjoyed by teens and adults. For more information, contact the La Crosse District Office at 608.779.2399 or visit the Visitor Center, located at N5727 County Road Z, Onalaska, WI.

Lecture - The Attacking Ocean

Thursday, April 02, 2015
7:00 pm at Graff Main Hall, Auditorium

Dr. Fagan will be talking about his latest book, The Attacking Ocean: The Past, Present and Future of Rising Sea Levels, which focuses on rising global sea levels, showing how societies of the past adapted to rising waters and how the rising sea levels of today impact the lives of millions of city dwellers and farmers around the world.

Brian Fagan is a leading authority on the complex relationship between the environment, climate change and human society. Fagan has 46 books under his belt, including eight college textbooks familiar to two generations of archaeology students. For audiences ranging from business executives to high school students, his works position today’s highly publicized climate crisis in a crucial historical context and describes how humans have adapted to environmental changes over the eons.

Speaker: Dr. Brian Fagan, Emeritus Professor of Anthropology at the University of California at Santa Barbara

Wisconsin Archaeology Month

May 2015

Volunteer Field Survey Opportunity for MVAC Members

Saturday, May 02, 2015
8:30 am - 4 pm at University of Wisconsin La Crosse, Archaeology Center and Laboratories
Fee: Free admission for MVAC members.

MVAC will celebrate Wisconsin Archaeology Month by involving volunteers in surveys of local fields to find unreported archaeological sites. The day will begin with an introduction at the archaeology laboratory, followed by helping with an actual field survey. Participants will end the day back at the lab to wash the artifacts recovered and learn more about their history. Advance registration required! The number of participants is limited, so register early. Children may participate if accompanied by an adult. (Rain Date - Saturday, May 9, 2015) Call MVAC at 608.785.8454 or email mvac@uwlax.edu to register.

Lecture - Prehistoric Wisconsin: Living with the Seasons

Tuesday, May 05, 2015
7:00 pm at Vernon County Historical Society, Viroqua, WI

Constance Arzigian, Senior Research Associate at the Mississippi Valley Archeology Center, UW-La Crosse, will describe how archeologists determine during what seasons a site was occupied, what people were hunting and gathering, and how these things changed in southwestern Wisconsin over the last 10,000 years.

The public is invited to this free program. If you have recently found arrowheads or similar artifacts and would like to ask Dr. Arzigian about them, you are welcome to bring them to the program. Weather cancellations are announced on WVRQ radio and on the Facebook page of the Vernon County Historical Society. For additional information contact the Vernon County Historical Society.

Egypt - grades 4-6

Monday, July 20, 2015
9 am - 3 pm at University of Wisconsin - La Crosse, Wimberly Hall, room 312

Learn about mummies, pyramids, and the people who lived in Egypt at the time of the pharaohs! Hands-on activities will include making a mummy case and mask, and writing a message in hieroglyphics. Cancellations prior to July 3 will receive a full refund minus a $40 cancellation fee. No refunds for cancellations after July 3.

Age: Students entering grades 4-6
Fee: $80
Note: Bring a lunch, drink, snacks and water bottle.

For registration information please contact the: University of Wisconsin - La Crosse, Office of Continuing Education and Extension, 608.785.6504
Online registration at: https://www.uwlax.edu/ex/archaeology-workshops/
For information on activity content please contact: MVAC's Public Outreach Program at 608.785.8454 or email mvac@uwlax.edu.

Public Archaeology Field Schools (3 day experience) - adults and high school students

Monday-Wednesday, July 20-22, 2015
July 20, 2015: 9 am–5 pm; July 21–22, 2015: 7 am–3:30 pm at University of Wisconsin La Crosse, Cartwright Center, room 259

This experience is open to high school students through adults. Fee includes a one-year MVAC membership. Supervised dorm facilities are available for high school students at an additional cost of $225 for 3 days and $335 for 5 days. Cancellation prior to June 19 will receive a full refund minus a $100 cancellation fee. No refunds for cancellations after June 19.

Fee: $350

For registration information please contact the: University of Wisconsin - La Crosse, Office of Continuing Education and Extension, 608.785.6504
Online registration at: https://www.uwlax.edu/ex/archaeology-workshops/
For information on activity content please contact: MVAC's Public Outreach Program at 608.785.8454 or email mvac@uwlax.edu.

Public Archaeology Field Schools (5 day experience) - adults and high school students

Monday-Friday, July 20-24, 2015
July 20, 2015: 9 am–5 pm; July 21–24, 2015: 7 am–3:30 pm at University of Wisconsin La Crosse, Cartwright Center, room 259

This experience is open to high school students through adults. Fee includes a one-year MVAC membership. Supervised dorm facilities are available for high school students at an additional cost of $225 for 3 days and $335 for 5 days. Cancellation prior to June 19 will receive a full refund minus a $100 cancellation fee. No refunds for cancellations after June 19.

Fee: $500

For registration information please contact the: University of Wisconsin - La Crosse, Office of Continuing Education and Extension, 608.785.6504
Online registration at: https://www.uwlax.edu/ex/archaeology-workshops/
For information on activity content please contact: MVAC's Public Outreach Program at 608.785.8454 or email mvac@uwlax.edu.

Lecture - Under City Streets: Urban Archaeology in La Crosse

Tuesday, July 21, 2015
12:15 pm at Riverside Museum

La Crosse County Historical Society - History in a Bag: Brown Bag Lunch Series Speaker - Kathy Stevenson, Mississippi Valley Archaeology Center at UW-L. Location: Riverside Museum at 401 E. Veterans Memorial Drive, La Crosse, WI. For more information contact 608.782.1980.

Introduction to Archaeology - grades 5-9

Tuesday, July 21, 2015
9 am–3 pm at University of Wisconsin - La Crosse, Wimberly Hall, room 312

Explore MVAC’s Archaeology Lab and work with artifacts recovered from area excavations as an introduction to the science of archaeology. Discover how the first Native Americans in Wisconsin survived using the area’s natural resources. Students must take this class in order to attend the Middle School Field Experience. Cancellations prior to July 3 will receive a full refund minus a $40 cancellation fee. No refunds for cancellations after July 3.

Age: Students entering grades 5-9
Fee: $80
Note: Bring a lunch, drink, snacks, and a water bottle.

For registration information please contact the: University of Wisconsin - La Crosse, Office of Continuing Education and Extension, 608.785.6504
Online registration at: https://www.uwlax.edu/ex/archaeology-workshops/
For information on activity content please contact: MVAC's Public Outreach Program at 608.785.8454 or email mvac@uwlax.edu.

Middle School Field Experience – grades 5-9

Wednesday-Thursday, July 22-23, 2015
9 am–3 pm at University of Wisconsin - La Crosse, Wimberly Hall, room 312

Take your excitement for archaeology into the field! Students who have taken MVAC's Introduction to Archaeology class in the past can join a La Crosse area project. Participants will work alongside professional archaeologists in the field. Activities may include shovel testing or small-scale excavations. Weather may require alternate activities. Cancellations prior to July 3 will receive a full refund minus an $80 cancellation fee. No refunds for cancellations after July 3.

For registration information please contact the: University of Wisconsin - La Crosse, Office of Continuing Education and Extension, 608.785.6504
Online registration at: https://www.uwlax.edu/ex/archaeology-workshops/
For information on activity content please contact: MVAC's Public Outreach Program at 608.785.8454 or email mvac@uwlax.edu.

Open House - MVAC Archaeology Field School

Thursday, July 23, 2015
10 am - 2 pm at Norskedalen Heritage Farm (Skumsrud)

See what the MVAC Public Field School participants have been doing! Stop by on Thursday, July 23 between 10 am and 2 pm at the Norskedalen Heritage Farm (Skumsrud) to see the ongoing fieldwork, and collections of materials that have been recovered in the past. In case of rain, we'll be inside working with the collections. The Norskedalen Heritage Farm (Skumsrud) is located 1/2 mile west of Coon Valley, WI on Hwy 14/61. Call MVAC at 608.785.8454 or email mvac@uwlax.edu for more information.

Archaeology Festival

Saturday, September 12, 2015
10 am - 4 pm at Whitewater State Park

MVAC’s Connie Arzigian will be demonstrating the atlatl at the Whitewater River Valley Archaeology Festival between noon and 2 pm. Come and practice you skills with the atlatl. The festival will celebrate the unique human history of the Whitewater River. Throughout the day there will be special speakers and presenters offering a variety of programs and activities for all ages to enjoy. Some activities will include CCC and German POW Camp walks, tours of Beaver Cemetery, archery and atlatl throwing stations, pioneer games for kids, and Smokey Bear at the Elba Fire Tower. Directions: Located 3 miles south of Elba on State Highway 74. More information: call 507.932.3007.

Archaeological Tour

Tuesday, September 15, 2015
5:00 pm at La Crosse, South Side Neighborhood Center

Visit local archaeological sites and see where over 12,000 years of Native American occupation took place. The tour will start at the South Side Neighborhood Center, which is in the heart of a large village complex that thrived 350 to 700 years ago, and proceed to other archaeological sites in the area. Some of the sites include the Sanford Archaeological District, a Native American farming village that thrived from 1300 to the 1600’s. The tour will also include the mounds at Myrick Park, which are at least 1,000 years old. Tour is led by Wendy Holtz-Leith, Senior Research Archaeologist from MVAC. The tour will begin at the South Side Neighborhood Center. Parts of the tour require walking. Contact City of La Crosse Parks, Recreation & Forestry for more information. (Registration Deadline: Friday, September 11, 2015) Cost per participant: $4.

Open House at MVAC – Introducing the New Department of Archaeology & Anthropology

Thursday, September 24, 2015
3:30 - 5:30 pm at UWL Archaeology Center and Laboratories Building

The Open House will celebrate the new Department of Archaeology & Anthropology, the only department of its kind anywhere in the United States. Department faculty and Mississippi Valley Archaeology Center staff will be there to greet visitors. Attendees will be able to view the laboratory and see material recovered during archaeological research activities in the area. The Open House will include a cash bar and light refreshments. Call MVAC at 608.785.8454 or email mvac@uwlax.edu for more information.

International Archaeology Day

Saturday, October 17, 2015

Mississippi Valley Archaeology Center is a Collaborating Organization for the Archaeological Institute of America’s International Archaeology Day on Saturday, October 17, 2015. MVAC’s International Archaeology Day event will be Dr. Renee Friedman’s lecture on Wednesday, October 21, 2015. Link for more information about the day.

The City of the Falcon: Egypt’s First Capital and Royal Cemetery at Hierakonpolis

Wednesday, October 21, 2015
7:00 pm at University of Wisconsin - La Crosse, Graff Main Hall, Auditorium

Hierakonpolis is famous as the home of the Narmer palette, recording the unification of Egypt at the beginning of the First Dynasty, 3100 B.C. But 500 years earlier, this site was already one of the largest urban centers along the Nile. On-going excavations are revealing the tombs of regional kings who expressed their power in the size of their graves, and, most interestingly, with a royal menagerie of carefully buried exotic wild animals such as elephants, leopards, and troops of baboons to take to the afterlife. The menagerie gives us a glimpse of the reality behind many artistic symbols of power from this early period.

Plundered over the millennia, until recently the actual nature of the Hierakonpolis royal burials could only be assumed, but in March 2014 the discovery of a nearly intact tomb provided a tantalizing glimpse at the complex rituals that must have surrounded the burial of these early rulers. Even more remarkable, evidence of restoration of this tomb’s structure during the First Dynasty indicates the continued memory of, and respect paid to, the early Predynastic rulers some 500 or even 1000 years later.

Dr. Renée Friedman is a graduate of the University of California, Berkeley in Egyptian Archaeology (1994) and has worked at many sites throughout Egypt since 1980. With special interest in the Predynastic, Egypt’s formative period (4000-3100BC), in 1983 she joined the team working at Hierakonpolis, the largest site of the predynastic period still extant and accessible anywhere in the Nile Valley, and went on to become the director of the Hierakonpolis Expedition in 1996. She has carried out excavations every season since that time, leading to the remarkable discoveries of breweries, temples and the elite cemetery where the early rulers of the site were buried along with an intriguing array of wild animals. Renee is currently the Heagy Research Curator of Early Egypt at the British Museum and the author of many scholarly and popular articles about all aspects of the site of Hierakonpolis.

Call MVAC at 608.785.8454 or email mvac@uwlax.edu for more information.

Annual Awards & Lecture - Jim Gallagher's Favorite Archaeological Places in Ireland

Thursday, November 12, 2015
Social 6 pm, Awards 6:30 pm, Lecture 7 pm at University of Wisconsin - La Crosse, Cartwright Center, Port O'Call

Ireland is a country incredibly rich in well preserved and spectacular archeological sites and artifacts. Jim Gallagher has traveled to Ireland over 20 times including most recently in June of 2015. He has hiked hundreds of miles along the island's many walking routes and visited most of the important archaeological sites. His talk will explain the colorful history of ancient cultures on the islands and show you lots of great photos of sites ranging from spectacular burial chambers to precipitous mountain-top forts. He'll show artifacts ranging from Iron Age bog bodies to spectacular golden treasures. In addition he will share with you some stories and scenic photos from his many hikes.

Jim is Professor Emeritus in the UW-L Archaeology Department where he taught a course on the Archaeology of Ireland. He is also a retired MVAC Executive Director. For 15 years he organized and led hiking tours in Ireland from La Crosse.

Call MVAC at 608.785.8454 or email mvac@uwlax.edu for more information.

2014

Lecture - The Rise and "Expansion" of Tiwanaku Civilization in the Bolivian Andes

Thursday, February 13, 2014
7:00 pm at University of Wisconsin - La Crosse, Cartwright Center, Port O'Call

Tim McAndrews is a widely recognized expert on the enigmatic Tiwanaku civilization, which emerged at an extreme elevation in the beautiful, though harsh, South American Andes. Join us as he discusses his research on Tiwanaku expansion out of the Lake Titicaca Basin and into the distant region of Cochabamba, Bolivia, nearly 1500 years ago. After a decade of research, McAndrews is turning traditional interpretations of Tiwanaku expansion upside down and argues that it was local chieftains, not Tiwanaku kings, who directed the influx of Tiwanaku culture into the Cochabamba region. Call MVAC at 608.785.8454 or email mvac@uwlax.edu for more information.

Speaker: Dr. Timothy McAndrews, Professor, Department of Sociology/Archaeology, UW-L; MVAC Director

Lithic Materials Workshop

Friday-Saturday, February 28-March 1, 2014
Friday 1-5 pm, Saturday 9 am - 3 pm at University of Wisconsin - La Crosse, Cartwright Center, rooms 337 & 339

This two-day event will feature informal presentations and displays, roundtable discussions, a lithic materials exchange, and lots of opportunities to talk. There is no registration fee. The entire event is open to archaeologists, flintknappers, collectors, students, and anyone else interested in regional lithics issues.

Lecture - Howard Carter and the Search for Tutankhamen

Tuesday, March 04, 2014
7:00 pm at University of Wisconsin - La Crosse, Cartwright Center, Port O'Call

In November of 1922, Howard Carter made one of the most spectacular archaeological discoveries of all time––the tomb of Tutankhamen. This discovery was not random chance, but rather the culmination of years of research and training. This lecture will explore the career of Howard Carter, from his initial trip to Egypt as a 17-year-old artist through the discovery and excavation of Tutankhamen’s tomb. Carter’s work will be placed within the greater context of the history of the exploration of the Valley of the Kings and the development of the discipline of archaeology in Egypt. Finally, several controversies surrounding Carter’s work in the tomb will be discussed. Call MVAC at 608.785.8454 or email mvac@uwlax.edu for more information.

Speaker: Dr. David A. Anderson, Associate Professor, Department of Sociology/Archaeology, UW-L; MVAC Research Associate

Artifact Show

Saturday, March 08, 2014
10am - 5pm at Valley View Mall, La Crosse, WI

Lecture - From Under the Streets to Front-Page News: Archaeological Excavations of an Ancient Village in Onalaska

Monday, March 24, 2014
7:00 pm at Onalaska Public Library, Meeting Rooms

In 2012 highway construction in downtown Onalaska made national news when remains of a late pre-Contact Oneota village and cemetery site were uncovered under a busy city street. The scale of the finds was a surprise-and a major challenge. Mississippi Valley Archaeology Center Projects Director Katherine Stevenson will discuss the project, and how cooperation and communication between agencies, the City of Onalaska, contractors, tribal representatives, and archaeologists was the key to a successful outcome.

Speaker: Dr. Katherine Stevenson, MVAC Projects Director

Lecture - India's Oldest Stone Inscriptions

Thursday, April 10, 2014
7:00 pm at University of Wisconsin - La Crosse, Cartwright Center, Port O'Call

Around 250 B.C., Ashoka Maurya was a dynamic ruler whose influence extended throughout most parts of modern-day South Asia. Archaeologists have uncovered inscriptions on rocks and pillars that are said to mark the boundaries of his empire. This lecture presents information on a group of inscriptions in the South Indian state of Karnataka, as well as the results of an experimental project to replicate an “Ashokan Edict.” Detailed investigation of inscription-carving technologies reveals information about ancient landscapes and imperial control. Call MVAC at 608.785.8454 or email mvac@uwlax.edu for more information.

Speaker: Heather Walder, Associate Lecturer, Department of Sociology/Archaeology, UW-L; MVAC Research Associate; PhD Candidate, UW–Madison

Lecture - Archaeology under the Streets

Friday, April 18, 2014
8:00 pm at Hamline University, St. Paul, MN (Anderson Hall, room 111)

At the Minnesota Archeological Society Annual Dinner Meeting MVAC archaeologists Dr. Kathy Stevenson and Dr. Connie Arzigian will share their incredible discoveries under the main street of Onalaska, Wisconsin. Highway construction contractors and the entire town rallied around an Oneota Village uncovered below Hwy 35 in 2012. Beneath an old railroad track, over 500 pit features with outstanding preservation of faunal remains were found. There may be a decade of laboratory analysis ahead, but Kathy and Connie will tell their incredible story and bring some of the artifacts to view. Link for more information visit the Minnesota Archaeological Society's website.

Speaker: Dr. Katherine Stevenson, MVAC Projects Director and Dr. Connie Arzigian, MVAC Senior Research Associate

Wisconsin Archaeology Month

May 2014

Volunteer Field Survey Opportunity for MVAC Members

Saturday, May 03, 2014
8:30 am - 4 pm at University of Wisconsin La Crosse, Archaeology Center and Laboratories
Fee: Free admission for MVAC members.

MVAC will celebrate Wisconsin Archaeology Month by involving volunteers in surveys of local fields to find unreported archaeological sites. The day will begin with an introduction at the archaeology laboratory, followed by helping with an actual field survey. Participants will end the day back at the lab to wash the artifacts recovered and learn more about their history. Advanced registration required! The number of participants is limited, so register early. Children may participate if accompanied by an adult. Call MVAC at 608.785.8454 or email mvac@uwlx.edu to register.

Hike - Restored Oak Savanna Hike

Saturday, June 07, 2014
9:30 am at E 4297 Upper Newton Road west of Viroqua, Wisconsin

Explore a property that has been managed to restore the land to the vegetation at the time of European settlement in the 1700s. Seeing remnant oaks on the hill, landowners Jim Theler and Suzanne Harris started removing non-native and invasive plants and trees on the top of the hill after purchasing the property in 2003. Once they had removed a pine plantation, a lot of ironwood, juniper and shrubs, they started a program of prescribed burns. Soon the remnant seeds in the soil sprouted, re-establishing a savanna and prairie understory. The oak and hardwood savanna was maintained by Native Americans with regular burning. Both Jim and Suzanne are archeologists, and their digs on the property have proven that rock shelters near the top of the hill have been used for human habitation over the last several thousand years. The site, called Cade Mound, is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

Tombs and Temples of the Americas - grades 4-6

Monday, June 23, 2014
9 am - 3 pm at University of Wisconsin - La Crosse, Wimberly Hall, room 312

Discover the unique cultures of the Maya, Inca, and Aztecs of Mesoamerica and South America. These early Americans built spectacular buildings, and had a written language and complex warrior rituals. Hands-on activities will include writing hieroglyphics, making a mask, and more! Cancellations prior to June 6 will receive a full refund minus a $40 cancellation fee. No refunds for cancellations after June 6.

Age: Students entering grades 4-6
Fee: $80
Note: Bring a lunch, drink, snacks and water bottle.

For registration information please contact the: University of Wisconsin - La Crosse, Office of Continuing Education and Extension, 608.785.6504
Online registration at: https://www.uwlax.edu/ex/archaeology-workshops/
For information on activity content please contact: MVAC's Public Outreach Program at 608.785.8454 or email mvac@uwlax.edu.

Public Archaeology Field Schools (3 day experience) - adults and high school students

Monday-Wednesday, June 23-25, 2014
June 23, 2014: 9 am–5 pm; June 24–25, 2014: 7 am–3:30 pm at University of Wisconsin La Crosse, Archaeology Center and Laboratories

This experience is open to high school students through adults. Fee includes a one-year MVAC membership. Supervised dorm facilities are available for high school students at an additional cost of $225 for 3 days and $335 for 5 days. Cancellation prior to May 23 will receive a full refund minus a $100 cancellation fee. No refunds for cancellations after May 23.

Fee: $350

For registration information please contact the: University of Wisconsin - La Crosse, Office of Continuing Education and Extension, 608.785.6504
Online registration at: https://www.uwlax.edu/ex/archaeology-workshops/
For information on activity content please contact: MVAC's Public Outreach Program at 608.785.8454 or email mvac@uwlax.edu.

Public Archaeology Field Schools (5 day experience) - adults and high school students

Monday-Friday, June 23-27, 2014
June 23, 2014: 9 am–5 pm; June 24–27, 2014: 7 am–3:30 pm at University of Wisconsin La Crosse, Archaeology Center and Laboratories

This experience is open to high school students through adults. Fee includes a one-year MVAC membership. Supervised dorm facilities are available for high school students at an additional cost of $225 for 3 days and $335 for 5 days. Cancellation prior to May 23 will receive a full refund minus a $100 cancellation fee. No refunds for cancellations after May 23.

Fee: $500

For registration information please contact the: University of Wisconsin - La Crosse, Office of Continuing Education and Extension, 608.785.6504
Online registration at: https://www.uwlax.edu/ex/archaeology-workshops/
For information on activity content please contact: MVAC's Public Outreach Program at 608.785.8454 or email mvac@uwlax.edu.

Introduction to Archaeology - grades 5-9

Tuesday, June 24, 2014
9 am–3 pm at University of Wisconsin - La Crosse, Wimberly Hall, room 312

Explore MVAC’s Archaeology Lab and work with artifacts recovered from area excavations as an introduction to the science of archaeology. Discover how the first Native Americans in Wisconsin survived using the area’s natural resources. Students must take this class in order to attend the Middle School Field Experience. Cancellations prior to June 6 will receive a full refund minus a $40 cancellation fee. No refunds for cancellations after June 6.

Age: Students entering grades 5-9
Fee: $80
Note: Bring a lunch, drink, snacks, and a water bottle.

For registration information please contact the: University of Wisconsin - La Crosse, Office of Continuing Education and Extension, 608.785.6504
Online registration at: https://www.uwlax.edu/ex/archaeology-workshops/
For information on activity content please contact: MVAC's Public Outreach Program at 608.785.8454 or email mvac@uwlax.edu.

Middle School Field Experience – grades 5-9

Wednesday-Thursday, June 25-26, 2014
9 am–3 pm at University of Wisconsin - La Crosse, Wimberly Hall, room 312

Take your excitement for archaeology into the field! Students who have taken the Introduction to Archaeology class in the past can join a La Crosse area project. Participants will work alongside professional archaeologists in the field. Activities may include shovel testing or small-scale excavations. Weather may require alternate activities. Cancellations prior to June 6 will receive a full refund minus an $80 cancellation fee. No refunds for cancellations after June 6.

For registration information please contact the: University of Wisconsin - La Crosse, Office of Continuing Education and Extension, 608.785.6504
Online registration at: https://www.uwlax.edu/ex/archaeology-workshops/
For information on activity content please contact: MVAC's Public Outreach Program at 608.785.8454 or email mvac@uwlax.edu.

Open House - MVAC Archaeology Field School

Thursday, June 26, 2014
10 am - 2 pm at Skumsrud Heritage Farm

See what the MVAC Public Field School participants have been doing this summer! Stop by on Thursday, June 26 between 10 am and 2 pm at the Skumsrud Heritage Farm to see the ongoing fieldwork, and collections of materials that have been recovered in the past. In case of rain, we'll be inside working with the collections. The Skumsrud Heritage Farm is located 1/2 mile west of Coon Valley, WI on Hwy 14/61. Call MVAC at 608.785.8454 or email mvac@uwlax.edu for more information.

National Endowment for the Humanities Summer Institute for Teachers

July 14 through August 1, 2014 at University of Wisconsin - La Crosse
Exploring the Past: Archaeology in the Upper Mississippi River Valley

Archaeology Program

Saturday, July 26, 2014
1:00 pm at Mississippi River National Wildlife & Fish Refuge Visitor Center

Dr. Connie Arzigian of the Mississippi Valley Archaeology Center at the University of Wisconsin – La Crosse will lead a one hour program in which people of all ages may explore artifacts and replicas from four different time periods of Wisconsin’s prehistory and will use these pieces to create stories of the past. This hands-on, family-friendly program investigates how others interacted with this landscape before us. The program will be held inside the Visitor Center. For more information, contact the La Crosse District Office at 608.779.2399.

Speaker: Dr. Connie Arzigian, MVAC Senior Research Associate; Associate Professor, Department of Sociology/Archaeology, UW-L

Lecture - Mississippi Pearls

Tuesday, September 09, 2014
7:00 pm at Vernon County Museum

Dr. James Theler will talk about the pre-historic uses of Upper Mississippi River mussels by American Indians, and the historic uses of these mussels by the shell button industry and the cultured pearl industry. Link to read more.

Speaker: Dr. James Theler, MVAC Senior Research Associate; Professor Emeritus, Dept. of Sociology/Archaeology

Lecture - Freshwater Mussels of the Upper Mississippi River

Thursday, September 11, 2014
6:30 pm at St. Mary's University, Winona, MN

Historic uses of freshwater mussels of the Upper Mississippi – Archaeological recovery of mussels, biogeographic implications, historic pearl rushes, the shell button industry, and cultured pearls will be discussed.

Speaker: Dr. James Theler, MVAC Senior Research Associate; Professor Emeritus, Dept. of Sociology/Archaeology

Lecture - Megalithic Cemeteries of the Turkana Basin

Tuesday, September 16, 2014
7:00 pm at University of Wisconsin - La Crosse, Cartwright Center, Port O'Call

Approximately 5,000 years ago, the first group of cattle herders in eastern Africa moved into the Turkana Basin of northwestern Kenya. This group built large megalithic “pillar sites” at several places surrounding Lake Turkana, and these pillar sites have intrigued archaeologists for nearly fifty years. New excavations reveal that many of these sites were large communal cemeteries. This talk will detail these exciting results, and will conclude with discussion about the enduring legacy of the pillar-site builders. Call MVAC at 608.785.8454 or email mvac@uwlax.edu for more information.

Speaker: Dr. Katherine Grillo, Assistant Professor, Department of Sociology/Archaeology, UW-L; MVAC Research Associate

Archaeology Festival

Saturday, September 20, 2014
10 am - noon at Whitewater State Park

Dr. Constance Arzigian will lead an activity for kids where they can discover how early Native people lived by examining artifacts from four different time periods, dating as far back as the end of the ice age.

Presenter: Dr. Connie Arzigian, MVAC Senior Research Associate; Associate Lecturer, Dept. of Sociology/Archaeology

Lecture - The Archaeology of Silver Mound

Wednesday, October 08, 2014
6:30 pm at Jackson County Bank's Community Room, Black River Falls, WI

The archaeology of Silver Mound: Breaking rocks for 13,000 years. People have been visiting Silver Mound, near Hixton, WI, since the end of the ice age. What has been drawing them there?Â From how far away did they travel? What did they do there? How do we know all this? Learn about this important site and see a display of some of the materials that have been found there, including some of the oldest artifacts in the state.

Speaker: Dr. Connie Arzigian, MVAC Senior Research Associate; Lecturer, Dept. of Sociology/Archaeology

Lecture - Who Was Here First? Exploring the Peopling of the Americas

Tuesday, October 14, 2014
7:00 pm at University of Wisconsin - La Crosse, Cartwright Center, Port O'Call

For most of the twentieth century, scientists were sure they knew how and when the Americas were first colonized. We thought that the first people entered the New World during the last Ice Age (around 14,000 years ago) using the Bering Land Bridge that connected Asia to Alaska. They then followed mammoths and other big game into North America through an “ice-free corridor” between the enormous glaciers that covered most of Canada. Once they emerged south of the glaciers, they rapidly spread south and east to cover the entire continent by 13,000 years ago. Over the past decade, new research has provided challenges to every portion of this narrative, indicating that the story of the peopling of the Americas is both much more complex and much more interesting than we originally thought. This talk will present some of the archaeological data that have challenged this theory and will discuss why we still do not know exactly what happened, even after a century of research. Call MVAC at 608.785.8454 or email mvac@uwlax.edu for more information.

Speaker: Dr. Jessi Halligan, Assistant Professor, Department of Sociology/Archaeology, UW-L; MVAC Research Associate

International Archaeology Day

Saturday, October 18, 2014

Mississippi Valley Archaeology Center is a Collaborating Organization for the Archaeological Institute of America’s International Archaeology Day on Saturday, October 18, 2015. MVAC’s International Archaeology Day event will be Dr. Jessi Halligan’s lecture on Tuesday, October 14. Link for more information about the day.

Lecture - Archaeology in Wisconsin

Monday, November 10, 2014
6:00 pm at Hatch Public Library, Mauston, WI

Dr. Constance Arzigian from the Mississippi Valley Archaeology Center will be at the Hatch Public Library in Mauston, WI to share information and artifacts related to archaeology in Wisconsin. Learn what archaeologists do in Wisconsin, see and hold real Native American artifacts from our region of the State, find out what to do if you find a bone in your yard, and ask questions.

Lecture - 13 Millennia in 30 Years: An Archaeologist's Take on Coulee Country and Beyond

Thursday, November 13, 2014
Social 6 pm, Awards 6:30 pm, Lecture 7 pm at University of Wisconsin - La Crosse, Cartwright Center, Port O'Call

Dr. James Theler, Professor Emeritus, UW-L Department of Sociology and Archaeology, has spent over thirty years studying past peoples and past environments of the Midwest, and has a wealth of experience in the Coulee Region. His entertaining talk will offer an insider’s perspective on regional research and fascinating archaeological discoveries throughout this time. Call MVAC at 608.785.8454 or email mvac@uwlax.edu for more information.

Speaker: Dr. James Theler, MVAC Senior Research Associate; Professor Emeritus, Dept. of Sociology/Archaeology