First National Archaeology Day Celebrates American History on Oct. 22

The Archaeological Institute of America (AIA) invites everyone to “Indulge your inner Indiana Jones” on Oct. 22.
First National Archaeology Day Celebrates American History on Oct. 22
Archeological dig - a project of the Museum of Northern Arizona. Lyntha Scott Eiler
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Archeological dig - a project of the Museum of Northern Arizona. (Lyntha Scott Eiler)
The Archaeological Institute of America (AIA) invites everyone to “Indulge your inner Indiana Jones” on Oct. 22.

The AIA, based at Boston University, is sponsoring the first ever National Archeology Day to celebrate all things archaeological.

“America is rich with history, and many exciting artifacts have been discovered over the years that have helped to illuminate that history,” writes Rep. Michael Capuano (MA-D) of the House of Representatives in a proclamation presented to the AIA.

“Every archaeological discovery opens a door into the past that can reveal important details about how our ancestors lived and what the world around them looked like so many years ago. Archaeology also shows us we are united with the global community through shared past and common customs.”

Events have been taking place in 16 states throughout October, which is celebrated annually as Archaeology Month.

On this day, members of the public are being encouraged to join the special program of events being held in conjunction with over 100 local archaeology societies across the United States and Canada.

Activities include film screenings, lectures, field trips, and museum tours. Many universities and research institutions will also take part in events to showcase their research and give people an insight into the work of an archaeologist.

To coincide with National Archaeology Day, the AIA will also present a new Google Earth layer displaying popular archaeological sites located in Canada and the United States.

“Having this Google Earth map debut on National Archaeology Day emphasizes the fact that archaeological discoveries often times exist right in our backyards,” said Ben Thomas, AIA’s director of programs, in a press release.

“We welcome everyone of all ages to take a look at the map and then explore a site that’s close to them.”

For more information, visit www.nationalarchaeologyday.org