Image by SC Department of Parks, Recreation & Tourism

Archaeologists from across the state are gathering at Charles Towne Landing State Historic Site to share their recent research with Charlestonians.

The inaugural Charles Towne Landing Archaeology Conference will be held at Founders Hall on Saturday, February 26th, from 9:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. This year’s conference focuses on the development of archaeology as a scientific discipline in our state and where it stands today.

Seven short papers and a number of posters on various aspects of South Carolina archaeology will announce the latest discoveries and research in the field. The keynote address will be delivered by Chris Judge, assistant director of Native American Studies at USC Lancaster. A detailed program can be found here.

Attendees will also enjoy an exhibit titled “The History of Archaeology in South Carolina: From Curiosity Cabinets to Science.” This collection, on loan from various non-profit institutions and cultural resource management companies, includes artifacts that have never been viewed by the public before.

The guests will also have the opportunity to bid at an archaeology-themed silent auction benefiting non-profit organizations that advocate site preservation throughout the state. The auction features a wide range of items, including hand made pottery, historic reproductions, jewelry, art prints and much more!

Conference fee is $10 (includes admission to the park grounds, coffee and breakfast snacks in the morning, and drinks and hors d’oeuvres at the closing reception). Lunch will be available for $10 per person through L & B Caribbean Food. No registration is necessary.

For more information, contact Charles Towne Landing State Historic Site at (843) 852-4200.