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Archaeology:
Overview
Washington State has a rich
archaeological heritage that spans over 12,000 years dating back to the
arrival of the first humans who crossed the land bridge in the Bering
Sea. Typical pre-historic archaeological sites in Washington include
shell middens, open sites or campsites, pictographs and petroglyphs, caves
or rockshelters, wet sites, lithic sites, quarries, culturally modified
trees, 
and burial sites or cemeteries. While many people relate
archaeology to ancient peoples and sites, more recent peoples also have
left traces of their lives on the landscape. These sites can range
in scope from fur trade sites and early missions, to military areas and
homestead sites, as well as logging, mining and railroad features.
The Department of Archaeology and Historic Preservation recognizes that archaeological sites are a nonrenewable resources that contribute to our sense of history and place and define our collective shared heritage. The wise stewardship of these sites is our collective responsibility.
For a comprehensive overview of archaeology in the the State of Washington see:
For a list of qualified archaeologists in the State of Washington which meet professional standards see:
Department of Archaeology & Historic Preservation
1063 South Capitol Way, Suite 106
Olympia WA 98501
Phone: 360-586-3065
Fax: 360-586-3067