BILL WEPLER
Curator of Historical Archaeology
Collection highlights
The period of historical archaeology begins with the availability of written records. These collections consist of materials collected from archaeological contexts or using accepted archaeological methodologies at American Indian, European, Euro-American and African American sites.
Archaeological collections are comprised of several components, including but not limited to artifacts, environmental and dating samples, field documentation, laboratory documentation, photographic records, related historical documents and reports. Collections are acquired through fieldwork and donation. Some artifacts not acquired from an archaeological context or using archaeological methods are maintained as part of reference collections.
Archaeologists have an ethical obligation to preserve the data they collect during archaeological projects for future generations. The Indiana State Museum follows recommendations developed by the Society for Historical Archaeology (SHA) with the explicit goals of permitting the long-term preservation of archaeological collections and maintaining their research and public education values.
Collections curated by the Indiana State Museum represent a wide range of sites. Important collections include materials excavated at the Lanier State Historic Site in Madison, Indiana; artifacts from Lick Creek, an early through late 19th century rural African American community in Orange County; Gronauer Lock, a Wabash and Erie Canal lock; and Community House II at New Harmony State Historic Site.