It is very important that everyone volunteering to work on one of these archaeological digs understands they are scientific research projects. All artifacts found during excavation by anyone working on the dig become part of the site collection, not the property of the person who uncovers them. Be sure you are willing to work under this rule before volunteering.
MAS Member Digs
MAS Members are currently conducting digs at archaeological sites in Michigan and from time to time offer opportunities for volunteers to participate.
Warner Homestead in Brighton Township – Tim Bennett Historic dig at an 1841 farm homestead. To contact Tim by email click on tk_bennett@yahoo.com. To visit the project website click on Warnerhomestead .
Wooster Site in Henrietta Township on the Portage River – Dan Wymer Very large multi-component site that has produced artifacts of every time period – from fluted points to musket flints. Several digs have been conducted for MAS members at this site. Another dig is scheduled for Sunday, May 5, 2024.
Anyone who has already emailed me asking about participating this year does not need to email me again. I will be contacting you. I have received more inquiries this year than any of the 4 previous Wooster digs, so I anticipate a larger than ever event. I normally run 5 screens and have never had to turn anyone away who wanted to dig. If necessary, I will run a 6th screen this year. Also, several people have told me they would love to come to the Wooster dig but no longer have the strength and stamina to dig or shake a sifter. COME ANYWAY! There are always plenty of people who can shovel and sift. Not every person has to be doing that. I will make sure there are plenty of comfortable chairs for people to relax in if they become tired. Everyone is welcome! The only thing I ask is that you be an MAS member. The opportunity to participate in this dig is one of the benefits of membership. To contact me by email click on dan@danwymer.com.
Gray Site in Napoleon Township – Dan Wymer Paleo campsite with 11 other prehistoric occupations. Activity temporarily suspended. To be resumed at a later date.
Other Opportunities to Visit or Participate in Michigan Digs
The Oxbow Archaeologists are a professionally mentored group of avocational archaeologists who excavate archaeological sites at the Chippewa Nature Center in Midland County. For more information click here.
Field Schools at archaeological excavations are conducted by several universities and state parks in Michigan. For more information about these programs click here.
Opportunities Outside Michigan
The Center for American Archaeology at Kampsville, Illinois offers a wide range of education programs including opportunities for children and families. For more information click here.
The Archaeological Fieldwork Server provides information about numerous opportunities to volunteer or participate in field schools in other states and other countries. To access that website click here.