THE DALLES — Celebrate the archaeology and history of the Columbia River Gorge and beyond at the Archaeology Roadshow on Saturday, Nov. 23 from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. in the River Gallery of Columbia Gorge Discovery Center & Museum, 5000 Discovery Drive, The Dalles. The event is free and open to the public.
The Archaeology Roadshow began in 2012 on the campus of Portland State University — and over the past 12 years has spread across Oregon, with celebrations taking place in Portland, Bend, Harney County, and now in the Gorge.
The Dalles Roadshow will feature more than 25 pop-up exhibits and hands-on activities hosted by archaeologists and community members from universities, tribes, federal agencies, archaeology companies, museums and nonprofit organizations. This family-friendly event introduces visitors of all ages to local heritage and the science and art of archaeology in a fun, engaging way, while instilling a sense of stewardship and respect for the past.
This year’s theme “The Archaeology of Food” encourages visitors to think about the universal importance of food to human existence — in the past and today. Come learn from members of the Confederated Tribes of the Umatilla Indian Reservation about the tribe’s ongoing efforts to revitalize cultural practices related to First Foods. Sample salmon, elk, and wapato, and taste local beverages like wine and beer — that have and continue to enrich our lives and boost our economies. Practice making a stone tool or throwing a spear. Find out how to volunteer or chart a career in archaeology here in the Pacific Northwest.
A panel of experts in archaeology and geology will be on hand to identify the personal artifacts visitors bring. Stone, bone, plant and historical items are welcome. Experts will do their best to determine the object’s age, possible function and anything else they can. If you have any details about where the object was found, please bring them. Limit of three objects. No financial appraisals.
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