<![CDATA[Governor Steve Beshear has declared September Kentucky Archaeology Month, in order to celebrate the contributions that have been made by archaeologists in furthering the people's understanding of the State's beautiful cultural heritage. The initiative also tries to highlight the successes achieved by the Living Archaeology Weekend, the oldest and largest archaeological event for the public. The event has been held continuously since 1989 in the Red River Gorge. The September 19th to September 20th edition at the Gladie Visitor Centre shall be the 26th consecutive running of the event. The proclamation made by the governor also credits the Kentucky Heritage Council as well as the Kentucky Office of State Archaeology for their efforts in maintaining and preserving thousands of archaeological sites located all over the state. Many of these sites also find a place in the list of National Historic Landmarks or the National Register of Historic Places. According to the Governor's speech, archaeological records have archived documents that cover more than 12000 years of Kentucky's past - from the Native Americans to Colonial era European farmers, from African slaves to the most recent descendants who run businesses and industries. According to Governor Beshear, the understanding of the history of Kentucky is still incomplete. There are a number of inaccurate myths that still prevail, and archaeologists have been working continually to offer new insights into the collective memory of the state. It is hoped that continued study of the past will expand present day knowledge of the cultural traditions and history of the area. The director of the William S. Webb Museum of Anthropology and OSA, Dr. George Crothers, believes that the Governor's proclamation not only acknowledges the abundant archaeological resources that the area has already yielded, but gives hope about the collective past that is yet to be revealed. Dr. Crothers said that the early-historical and pre-historical data found in Kentucky, and the associated archaeological research that has been conducted, is on par with other places around the globe. He believes that the Kentucky Archaeology Month goes a long way to recognizing the hard work put in over the decades. He hopes that it will help increase public awareness about the need to preserve historical sites, so that the evidence left behind by ancestors can be studied by future generations. The proclamation has also been welcomed by the Kentucky Organization of Professional Archaeologists, an organisation that works to strengthen the identity of archaeology as a profession. The organisation tries to encourage a high standard of training for archaeologists along with installing responsible and ethical archaeological practices. The Kentucky Archaeology Month acts as a precursor to International Archaeology Day, one of the most celebrated events in Kentucky. Hundreds of school students have already been invited to become a part of workshops on September 19th. These demonstrations will include how to weave baskets, throw spears, tan animal hides, and make weapon points. The general public has been invited to attend the event between 10.00AM - 05.00PM on the 20th of September, 2014. ]]>
Celebrating the Kentucky Archaeology Month
