Archaeology | MiPlace

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.

Explore Archaeology in Michigan

Who do you Contact with Questions?

State government archaeology programs are administered by four cooperating entities. Use this guide to determine which office can assist you with your questions or needs.

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. Learn how to donate 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, Permits, and Research

Do Research with the SHPO

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

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 Terrestrial Archaeological Site File submission form.

Archaeological Survey Short Report Form

The Short Report Form may only be used for certain types of projects. To determine whether your project can use the Short Report Form, review and select the appropriate information on Page 3 before using the form.

GIS Geospatial Data Requirements

Follow these requirements for geospatial datasets when submitting survey reports to Michigan SHPO.

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.

DRAFT State Archaeological Documentation Standards

This document discusses the appropriate field and research standards for archaeology work in Michigan.

Michigan Archaeology Day

2022 Michigan Archaeology Day

SAVE THE DATE! Saturday, October 29, 2022 is Michigan Archaeology Day! Join the SHPO and our partners at the Michigan History Center in Lansing for this one-day annual event, great for all ages. Click here to learn more about Archaeology Day.

Michigan Archaeology Poster: "Echoes of Community: Remembering Paradise Valley through Archaeology"

Redevelopment of the former Douglass Homes public housing site in Detroit provides opportunities to learn from the failed urban development policies of the twentieth century and reveal artifacts and stories of daily life through archaeology.

Michigan Archaeology Awareness Posters

Archaeology tells the stories of shared history. View our growing collection of archaeology awareness posters - easy to download, print or save!

Previous Michigan Archaeology Day Information

View previous Archaeology Day program information and materials.

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.

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.