GTM Research Reserve Celebrates National Archaeology Day Saturday!

 

In the words of the Archaeological Institute of America (AIA), National ArchaeologyDay is a celebration of archaeology and the thrill of discovery. Every October the AIA and archaeological organizations across the United States, Canada, and abroad present archaeological programs and activities for people of all ages and interests. The declaration of National Archaeology Day, which began its first year in 2011, was made in order to help raise awareness around the importance of archaeology, which is very misunderstood by the general public. It also is meant to be a day of fun and excitement which, according to AIA “provides the chance to indulge your inner Indiana Jones”.

Image by Heritage/Markus Miligan
courtesy ArchaeoSoup Productions

The GTM Research Reserve is thrilled to be celebrating National Archaeology Day in conjunction with the Florida Public Archaeology Network (FPAN) this Saturday, October 20. 2012. We invite you to a day of fun and exploration at the Environmental Education Center from 9 a.m. until 2 p.m. Activities will include a guided trail hike highlighting cultural history, a lecture learn where visitors can learn about archaeology in Northeast Florida, and Archaeolympics  where participants can test their own archaeology skills.

Sarah E. Miller, MA RPA

Photo courtesy of Historic City News

The lecture, led by Sarah Miller, Director of the Northeast Region of the Florida Public Archaeology Network, will introduce the basics of archaeology. The presentation, which is entitled “Fantastic Archaeology: Florida Frauds, Myths, and Mysteries.”, will also focus on the misuse and abuse of Florida’s past as well as discuss a few unsolved mysteries.

As another very exciting part of this event, the GTM Research Reserve will unveil a new display of Native American ceramics in the exhibit hall which were found on the Guana Peninsula by William Evenden and Fred Williams during the 1950’s. In 2005, the collection was donated to the State of Florida.

Event Schedule and Additional Details

9 a.m. – Guided Hike

10 a.m. through 11 a.m. – Archaeolympics

11 a.m. – Lecture, “Fantastic Archaeology: Florida Frauds, Myths, and Mysteries”

Noon through 2 p.m.- Archaeolympics

This event is free and open to the public. Visitors are invited to tour the Environmental Education Center after participating in the event. Admission is $2 per adult, $1 for children 10-17 and free for children 9 and younger. Please RSVP for the guided hike online or by calling 904-823-4500.