Archaeology

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 Michigan

The Michigan State Historic Preservation Office includes archaeologists who have extensive knowledge and expertise in nearly 14,000 years of human history. SHPO archaeologists record, investigate, interpret and protect Michigan's archaeological sites, and maintain the official database of recorded archaeological sites located both on land and underwater. Our archaeologists are responsible for archaeology on state land and collaborate with the Department of Natural Resources on exhibits and educational programs, and curate archaeological collections obtained from state land as well as collections generated by review and compliance projects across the state.

The resources below provide guidance and resources for conducting archaeological research in Michigan and promote the study and appreciation of archaeology projects across the state.

Celebrate Michigan Archaeology!

We took our annual Michigan Archaeology Day virtual in 2020! Digital exhibits bring together videos, maps and other resources so people of all ages can virtually access research projects happening across our state. Learn about thousands of years of history, new digital technologies for photographing and studying artifacts, and what to do if you think you might have found part of a shipwreck.

Start your exploration!

Explore Archaeology in Michigan

Michigan Archaeology brochure

From Detroit to Copper Harbor and Ironwood to Drummond Island, archaeological sites reveal how people have lived in Michigan for nearly 14,000 years.

Preserving Michigan's Underwater Past

A variety of state agencies partner in the stewardship of Michigan's submerged heritage beneath the surface of the Great Lakes and other bodies of water.

Archaeologist, Historian, and Architectural Historian Consultant List

List of consultants who meet the federal qualifications for Archaeologist, Historian and/or Architectural Historian.

Donating to the Michigan Archaeological Collections

The SHPO is committed to preserving Michigan history as it is represented by artifacts.

Archaeology Projects in Michigan

Archaeological investigations take place in Michigan every summer. Several of these projects are archaeological field schools aimed at teaching excavation techniques to college students, but others allow a first-hand look for the general public to see archaeologists at work.

Archaeology for Kids

Activities and resources for junior archaeologists!

CRM, Forms, and Research

Do Research with the SHPO

How to request historic resource and survey files from the State Historic Preservation Office.

Information for Archaeological Consultants

SHPO staff cannot do research on behalf of consultants. Learn more about archaeology research at SHPO.

Federal Professional Qualifications Documentation

How to submit your professional qualifications to SHPO.

Michigan Tribal Historic Preservation Officers and Tribal Cultural Representatives

Contact information for Tribal Historic Preservation Officers and Tribal Cultural representatives for Michigan's twelve federally-recognized Native American tribes.

Archaeological Investigation in Michigan

Under Michigan law, the state oversees all archaeology performed on state land. Learn more about the permitting process.

Michigan Archaeological Site Form

Link to the official State Archaeological Site File submission form.

Application for Permit to Perform Archaeological Exploration on State-Owned Land

Return completed application to: Sandra S. Clark, Director Michigan History Center 702 W. Kalamazoo Street PO Box 30740 Lansing, MI 48909

Beach Wreckage Documentation Form

If you believe you've found a shipwreck or materials from a shipwreck, use this form to document and report your discovery.

Michigan Archaeology Day

2021 Michigan Archaeology Day

Save the Date: October 23, 2021! In 2020, we took Archaeology Day virtual. Check out our interactive webpage to explore active archaeology projects from around the state, unique virtual tours, and activities for kids, and more.

Michigan Archaeology Poster: "Knowledge Written On Stone: The Sanilac Petroglyphs"

These carvings in stone, or petroglyphs, represent the collective memory of the Great Lakes Anishinabek (Original People) ancestors.

Michigan Archaeology Awareness Posters

View current and past posters from the collection.

Previous Michigan Archaeology Day Information

View previous Archaeology Day program information and materials.

2019 International Archaeology Day

International Archaeology Day (IAD) is a celebration of archaeology and its contributions to society. Every October the AIA and archaeological organizations around the world present archaeological programs and activities for people of all ages and interests.

More Information

Contact State Archaeology Staff

Contact Michigan's archaeology staff.

Archaeologists and Reality Television

Statements by professional archaeologists about treasure hunting television programs.

Michigan Archaeological Society

The non-profit MAS who seek to knit ties between professional and amateur archaeologists who study and share the fascinating archaeological record of Michigan's past.