Artifact Identification Day - Oct. 27

The very basic definition of an artifact is an item, large or small that is made or given shape by humans.  Through the centuries, artifacts have taken many forms with the most common being a tool, a work of art, or an object of archeological interest.  Many times these items in the world of archeologists have some type of cultural meaning and in the context of Native Americans, these items can represent stone tools and weapons, pottery, and items for personal use or adornment.

On October 27 from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. Lucianne Lavin, Ph.D., the Director of Research and Collections, at the Institute for American Indian Studies will be available to identify and provide expert commentary about your local stone objects and other Northeastern Native American cultural items. The public is invited to bring up to 12 objects to be examined. Although the Institute cannot offer an appraisal of your object, they certainly will be able to enlighten you as to the what, where, when, and how of your mystery items!

Artifact identification can be a tricky business. You might want to ask if your object is archaeological or geological. Another question may be who made the artifact and where does it come from. To help with the identification be prepared to tell Dr. Lavin where you found the artifact - in the field, in a shop, or if you inherited it from a relative or friend. Anything about the context of an artifact is important in terms of identification. A final question might where you can learn more about your mysterious treasure from the past.

Artifact Identification Day is included in the price of admission, members of the Institute are free, Adults $10, Seniors $8 and children are $6. The Insititute for American Indian Studies is located on 38 Curtis Road in Washington Connecticut. 

About The Institute for American Indian Studies

Located on 15 acres of woodland acres the IAIS preserves and educates through archeology, research, exhibitions, and programs. We have a 16^th c. Algonquian Village, Award-Winning Wigwam Escape, and a museum with temporary and permanent displays of authentic artifacts from prehistory to the present that allows visitors to foster a new understanding of the world and the history and culture of Native Americans. The Institute for American Indian Studies is located on 38 Curtis Road, Washington, CT.