Looking at Prehistoric Artifacts – What is it? How old is it? Who made it? Where was it found?
The Central Wabash Archaeology Chapter (CWAC) and the Illinois Archaeological Survey (IAS) invite all private holders of Native American artifacts to bring prehistoric items found in southeastern Illinois to an identification workshop at the Archaeology Museum, 408 South Cross Street, Robinson, IL, on Saturday, November 6, 2021, 1 – 5 PM. Identifying and documenting artifacts found in southeastern Illinois is very important in identifying past cultures who inhabited the Wabash Valley.
Unfortunately, historical evidence of Native Americans in the Wabash Valley is quickly disappearing. Private artifact collectors are the largest remaining holders of this history, but their numbers are dwindling. Eventually private collections become victims of estate divisions and sales where new owners may be appreciative, but have little or no interest in the historical significance and provenance of these artifacts. The knowledge is then permanently lost. AND the opportunity to find new artifacts is gone. Modern farming methods, roads, construction, etc., have destroyed evidence of most Indian villages and mounds. Local private artifact holders are the last link to the Wabash Valley’s Native American history.
The IAS has begun a state-wide effort to preserve this evidence by documenting the private collections. CWAC has been asked to host this first meeting due to our experience and the large number of private collections in this area.. Professional archaeologists from the Illinois State Archaeological Survey will be on hand to help identify artifacts, describe how they were used, and provide information about the cultural association and time period. The methods used to document collections will be also explained. CWAC and IAS are asking everyone to help capture what remains of this history before it all disappears. We encourage all local collectors of Indian artifacts to plan on attending and bringing items for examination. Saturday November 6th. 1-5pm at Archeology Museum. 408 S Cross St. Robinson,IL
For more information please contact:
Lynn Stephens: stephens.lynn55@gmail.com 618-546-1180
Barb Ross: babifrsb@gmail.com 618-553-1842
Stanley Stephens: sstephens@frontier.com 618-562-9709
Please refer other private collector’s names and info to us.
