Center for American Archeology

The Center for American Archeology pursues a mission of education, research, and public service in archeology.

Arizona State University Field School students excavating 1×2 m unit.

Since 1953, we have engaged in archaeological research, education, stewardship, and public service to share the discovery and untold stories of North America’s past through innovative programs for all ages.

Excavation at the Koster Site

Experience archaeology for yourself in Kampsville with the CAA!

Archeology Day

Saturday, July 15, 2023

Celebrate 70 years of archaeological education, research, and outreach with the CAA!

You’re invited to spend a day exploring the fascinating 12,000-year history of west central Illinois through fun, hands-on activities, informational exhibits, and presentations about the current research being done by CAA archaeologists.

All ages are welcome! Archeology Day is a family-friendly event.

Program Map and Schedule (pdf)

Events & Activities (10 am – 3 pm)

Maynard Building

  • Check-in
  • Program Guide
  • CAA Gift Shop

Kampsville Riverfront Park

  • Corn Husk Doll Making (Kimberly Bugg, Oneida Nation)
  • Native Beadwork (Kathy Dickerson, Kiowa Tribe)
  • Basket & Loom Weaving (Pat and Bob Sims)
  • Fingerweaving (Susan Ream Wilson)
  • Flintknapping (Tim Dillard and Mike Dothager)
  • Atlatl, Spear-making, and Spearthrowing (Don Stormer)
  • Archaeology Lab
  • Pictographs
  • Cordage making
  • Games

Flotation Lab

  • Ceramic firing techniques (Susan Bostwick)
  • Flotation sampling and processing
  • Coil pot making

McCully Heritage Project

  • Chip-a-Canoe Experimental Archaeology (Larry Kinsella)
  • Artifact Identification (Dave Nolan)
  • Archaeology Skills Test (prizes!)
  • German Site Tours

Scheduled Events

  • 10:30 am — Friction Fire Demonstration — Myron Kretney — McCully Heritage Project
  • 11:00 am — Corn Husk Dolls—History and Cultural Importance — Kimberly Bugg (Oneida Nation, Six Nations Reserve) — Kampsville Riverfront Park
  • 1:00 pm — Experimental Archaeology—Traps (Mike Dothager)
  • 2:00 pm — Friction Fire Demonstration — Myron Kretney — McCully Heritage Project

Program Map and Schedule (pdf)

Location — Center for American Archeology, Kampsville, IL

Kampsville is located on Highway 100 in Calhoun County, Illinois; it takes approximately 90 minutes to reach us from either St. Louis, MO or Springfield, IL.

Use the map below to plan your route. The route on the map begins at Alton and is routed through Carrollton so that you arrive at the ferry. Click the map and enter your own starting point to get the best directions for you.

For additional information, email or call 618-653-4316

This project is partially supported by a grant from the Illinois Arts Council Agency,
with funding from the National Endowment for the Arts and the Two Rivers Arts Council.

News

Experience Archaeology at the CAA

We are to happy announce that we are accepting applications for all CAA 2021 programs! Field Schools Spring Adult Field School: May 16-29 Advanced Field School: June 13-July 24 Bioarchaeology & Field Archaeology program options High School Field School: June 13–July 10 Summer Adult Field School: July 11–August 7 Fall Adult Field School: September 12–25 Internships …

Special Sale

It is cold outside in Kampsville with some freezing temperatures predicted to come. Time to warm up with a hot beverage of choice. Are you team coffee or team tea? Maybe you just prefer some cocoa. Whatever you choose, be sure to put it in a 20 oz Vacuum Insulated Stainless Steel Travel Tumbler with …

Programs

Are you ready to experience archaeology? The CAA offers educational archaeological experiences for all ages, including school group programs, scouts, and opportunities to join our field crew.

Continue reading “Programs”

Donate to the CAA

Make a one-time gift to the CAA and support our mission of archaeological education, research, and public service.

You may also use the Donate button to pay your program tuition. Make sure you enter the student name, program, and/or invoice number into the “message to seller” field.

PLEASE DO NOT SUBMIT DEPOSITS OR TUITION PAYMENTS UNTIL YOU HAVE RECEIVED ENROLLMENT CONFIRMATION AND AN INVOICE.

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