IAS PRESIDENT'S MESSAGE
Archaeology.
The very word evokes images of ancient Egypt, pyramids, Greek temples, and treasure. So it may surprise you that some of the most important discoveries made about the past are right here in Illinois. From 12,000-year old campsites of mastodon hunters to Lincoln’s home, archaeologists have unearthed artifacts and other evidence that contribute to the story of human history.Congress and the State Legislature recognize the importance of the past. So they have passed laws to ensure that significant places of the past are preserved, or studied if threatened by development. Every year archaeologists across Illinois search for artifacts and document their finds. In a few instances, they return to especially important sites to unearth more artifacts for study, and then relate their discoveries to us in reports, articles, and books.
Archaeologists across our nation annually sponsor a week- or month-long celebration to offer presentations of their recent work. Each September in Illinois we celebrate "Archaeology Awareness Month." For more than a decade, we have prepared a poster on a particular theme of our work, and we encourage organizations throughout the state to sponsor programs to highlight the contributions of archaeology to our understanding of human history. This Web site provides an opportunity for you to discover where and when archaeology awareness activities occur in your area. It also provides a way to explore archaeological research, to learn about archaeological organizations, to look back on previous celebrations, and more. During "Archaeology Awareness Month," we encourage you to take advantage of the extraordinary educational opportunities near you.