Every year, volunteers are given the opportunity to see what it is like to be an archaeologist and excavate an actual site, through our Public Archaeology Program. You can help us dig and screen for artifacts in the field or wash objects at the Maryland Archaeological Conservation Lab. Each day offers opportunities for those who want more than just digging.  You can come as often as you want – an hour, a day, the entire month! It’s a fun way for the whole family to learn about the past. Who knows what great discoveries await you?

How Do I Sign Up?​

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The program runs from 9 am to 3 pm, Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays, beginning on May 5th and running through June 4th, 2022.  Join us for field excavations and hands-on all-ages outdoor activities in the morning followed by optional lab tours and lab work in the afternoons inside the Maryland Archaeological Conservation Lab. Bring appropriate clothes for getting a little dirty and pack a lunch if you intend on staying all day! In the event of rain, all activities will take place in the lab.

Children under 15 must be accompanied by an adult. There is no fee, but space is limited and registration is mandatory. Registration begins March 7, 2022. To register, please contact Scott Strickland at scott.strickland@maryland.gov or 410-586-8554.

Please make sure to check out our increasingly digital presence on Jefferson Patterson Park and Museum's Instagram and Facebook pages, as well as the Maryland Archaeological Conservation Lab Facebook page.

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In addition to Public Archaeology, JPPM is also sponsoring a free one-day archaeology event on April 9 called Discovering Archaeology Day. Click here for more details