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Twenty-Nine Bells: Remembering the Edmund Fitzgerald
On November 9, 1975, the lake freighter Edmund Fitzgerald steamed out of the harbor at Superior, Wisconsin, with a cargo of iron ore bound for Detroit. The following evening, in a ferocious storm, the Fitzgerald sank in eastern Lake Superior, without a distress call. All 29 crew members perished, devastating the lives of their families, friends, and fellow sailors.
The Great Lakes and Great Lakes Shipping are a fundamental part of Michigan's history. The preservation of shipwrecks, such as the Edmund Fitzgerald, is important so archaeologists can better understand the lifeway of the people who built, operated, and went down with the ship. The 2025 Michigan Archaeology Poster and webpage explore the preservation of shipwrecks and honor the 50th anniversary of the sinking of the Edmund Fitzgerald.
From Detroit to Copper Harbor...
and Ironwood to Drummond Island, archaeological sites reveal how people have lived in Michigan for nearly 14,000 years. Archaeology is the scientific study of the human past, using places and objects to understand changing people and environments. It is the study of sand dunes and forests, seas and cities, hardship and resourcefulness, ingenuity and innovation, and above all, communities. Across time and space, archaeology helps us know the past, understand the present and plan for a sustainable and vibrant future.
Explore Projects In MichiganThe Michigan State Historic Preservation Office Archaeology Program records, investigates, interprets, and protects Michigan's archaeological sites. SHPO archaeologists have extensive knowledge and expertise in Great Lakes archaeology. The SHPO maintains the official database of recorded archaeological sites located both on land and underwater. The SHPO also curates archaeological collections generated by review and compliance projects across the state, as well as collections obtained from state land (in collaboration with the Michigan Department of Natural Resources).
FIRST LEGO League Challenge
UNEARTHED: How Archaeologists Solve Problems
This year’s FIRST® LEGO® League Challenge is UNEARTHED. Teams will “explore a dig site, carefully excavating artifacts hidden beneath layers of rock and soil and uncovering clues that reveal stories of past civilizations.” To prepare you for the challenge and help you learn about archaeology, we’ve assembled a collection of resources about Michigan Archaeology!
Explore UNEARTHED Resources!Check out recent updates from SHPO's Archaeology Program, including SHPO's work with the archaeological site file and database, survey and GIS, extensive community outreach, and more.
Fiscal Year 2025 Annual Report
Learn MoreExploring Careers in Archaeology
Meet Dr. Don Weir, retired Archaeologist with decades of experience in Cultural Resource Management (CRM) and the founder of Chronicle Heritage. Listen as Dr. Weir discusses his fascination with archaeology from a young age, his career path after graduating from Michigan State University, his findings through the years and more.
Michigan Archaeology for the Public
State Archaeological Site File: Reporting & Research Requests
Section 106 Research, Standards & Forms
October is Michigan Archaeology Month!
Every October we recognize the unique history and pre-history of the place we call home by celebrating Michigan Archaeology Month! Archaeology-focused events are planned across the state. You can also dig in to explore Michigan's history with online activities, links, maps and more at our virtual Michigan Archaeology Month webpage!
Dig in to archaeology month!October is Michigan Archaeology Month!
Michigan Archaeology Poster: 29 Bells | Remembering the Edmund Fitzgerald
On November 10, 1975, the lake freighter Edmund Fitzgerald sank in a ferocious storm in Lake Superior. When archaeologists study shipwrecks, they learn new information about a snapshot in time. Learn more about the Fitzgerald and shipwreck preservation.
International Archaeology Day
Archaeology is bigger than Michigan - it's worldwide! International Archaeology Day is a celebration of archaeology and its contributions to society. Every October archaeological organizations around the world present archaeological programs and activities for people of all ages and interests.
