Archaeology

Archaeology is the scientific study of material remains such as fossil relics, artifacts and monuments of past human life and activities. Most archaeological sites are buried and difficult to see. These fragile and irreplaceable sites hold information about a community's history and prehistory and can be found in your backyard, at a building site or under the street. It is vital to identify, inventory and protect these important and significant unique resources. The location, study and protection of Connecticut's archaeological sites are an important component of the state's historic preservation program. These sites can reveal valuable information regarding a community's past and wealth of knowledge about pre-history. 

The State Historic Preservation Office/SHPO and Office of Connecticut State Archaeology (OSA) are the lead agencies for the preservation of the state's archaeological and historic heritage and are responsible for identifying, evaluating, and protecting these resources. They work closely with the state's Native American community, professional and recreational archaeologists and concerned citizens to safeguard Connecticut's fragile archaeological heritage. The SHPO/SHPO is responsible for monitoring all archaeological explorations of state-owned land and water and coordinates with both state and federal agencies during the planning stage of projects to augment the protection of archaeological resources. Significant archaeological sites can be nominated to the National Register of Historic Places and be designated as a State Archaeological Preserve. Designating a property as an Archaeological Preserve gives the site a degree of protection, including protection from unauthorized excavation or other alternatives or disturbances. Other benefits include review of construction projects in an Archaeological Preserve and that the SHPO and State Archaeologist development a management plan for the care and use of designated sites. For more information on Connecticut's Archaeological Preserves read the Connecticut Preservation News article "Connecticut's New Preservation Law: State Archaeological Preserves."

The Office of State Archaeology is located at the University of Connecticut's Museum of Natural History and is the primary source for information about the archaeological heritage of Connecticut. It maintains site files and maps, inventories and catalogues newly discovered sites, provides technical assistance, and advises local and state officials how to protect historic and prehistoric archaeological sites. The Friends of the Office of State Archaeology is a volunteer, not-for-profit organization founded to enhance the efforts of the office of Connecticut State Archaeology and facilitate accomplishment of its state-mandated responsibilities. Click here for FOSA contact information. This group states it will meet its goals by:

1. Encouraging and facilitating educational activities that enhance public awareness of the OSA, as well as archaeological issues in general;
2. Encouraging participation by communities, institutions, corporations, and individuals in supporting the efforts of the OSA;
3. Encouraging partnerships between the OSA, scientific research initiatives and local communities;
4. Developing sources of financial and other support and directing this support to the efforts of the OSA.

Archaeological Institute of America Archaeology & Ethnography Program (NPS) ArchNet / Archaeological Research Institute Connecticut State Archaeologist Society for American Archeology Society for Industrial Archaeology