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Our current research is focused on exploring the profound changes experienced by Native American groups in northeast Iowa as a result of initial European influences in the 17th century. What makes this research so valuable is that this area constitutes one of the only places in this region of the country where there is an unbroken cultural sequence that both precedes and postdates European contact. As a result it is possible to ascertain the nature of the dramatic cultural transformations that took place during this time.
Currently the Luther College Archaeological Field School (Anthropology 302) is offered on a biennial schedule. This course, which runs for six weeks during June and July, will be offered again in 2006. Click here for more information. |
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The
Luther College Archaeological Research Center was founded in 1969
by R. Clark Mallam around the nucleus of the Gavin Sampson Collection.
Since its inception the ARC has constituted a central location
for the study of Midwestern US prehistory, focusing on all aspects
of the archaeological record in this area spanning over 12,000
years of human occupation. Consistent with its goals when first
established, the Archaeological Research Center employs archaeology
as an instrument for promoting the anthropological perspective
- the study and appreciation of other cultural adaptations and
beliefs - within the context of the liberal arts. Directed by
Perhaps
more importantly, the activities of the ARC offer excellent opportunities
for undergraduate students to play a primary role in all stages
of research; gaining firsthand experience with the practice of
archaeology. Through courses such as the archaeological field
school and the associated research design classes, students are
directly involved in the all aspects of this endeavor, from pre-field
preparation, to excavation, and the final stages of laboratory
processing, analysis, and reporting the results. In addition,
the resources of the program ensure that students gain valuable
experience with a range of technologically current resources,
including a Nikon total station, Sokkia SDR-33 data collector,
Dausman Flote-tech flotation machine, modern computer facilities,
and superb research and teaching collections.