Middleboro Museum Hosts Wampanoag Heritage and Archaeology Fair

Middleborough, Mass., (October 12, 2022) – In recognition of national Archaeology Month, the Massachusetts Archaeological Society (Mass Archaeology) will host a Wampanoag Heritage and Archaeology Fair at the Robbins Museum of Archaeology on Saturday, October 15 from 11am-3pm.

This free event will showcase the history and heritage of the Wampanoag, along with the cultural materials and artifacts of First Nations peoples from across Massachusetts and North America. With thousands of archaeological and ethnographic objects in its collections, the Robbins Museum is a unique local repository and archive that details more than 15,000 years of history for the Commonwealth.

Mass Archaeology President Victor Mastone said, “We are thrilled to welcome the public to this exploration of Indigenous culture and archaeological science. Our museum tours, demonstrations, and special guests will highlight the importance of the Wampanoag peoples through history and their continuing influence on the culture of this region.”

The open house event will feature hands-on demonstrations of archaeological technology, a make-your-own wampum pendant workshop, a sampling of traditional quahog chowder, and a chance to speak with professional archaeologists about artifact identifications.

Mass Archaeology Trustees Ellen Berkland, former Department of Conservation and Recreation archaeologist, and Linda Coombs, a member of the Wampanoag Tribe of Gay Head (Aquinnah), have collaborated with local Indigenous community members to spotlight the cultural history of the First Nations peoples in Southeastern Massachusetts.

Mastone said, “It is essential for the public to learn and know more about the Wampanoag community that is still here. Their technology. Their way of life. There connections to the landscape. We want to spotlight that local knowledge to students of history and culture from across Massachusetts.”

The Wampanoag Heritage and Archaeology Fair will take place at the Robbins Museum on Saturday, October 15 from 11am to 3pm. Admission is free, but donations of $5 per person are gratefully accepted to support Mass Archaeology programs and outreach. Free parking is available in the municipal lot across from the Museum at 17 Jackson Street, Middleborough. The Robbins is ADA accessible. For further information, please visit our website at www.MassArchaeology.org or our social channels on Facebook, Instagram, and YouTube @MassArchaeology.

About The Massachusetts Archaeological Society

Founded in 1939, The Massachusetts Archaeological Society has worked to fulfill its core mission of fostering respect for the rich First Nations heritage of the region through its commitment to education, research, and preservation. As a statewide nonprofit organization, Mass Archaeology works to bring the archaeological and cultural legacy of the Commonwealth to the public through our Robbins Museum of Archaeology in Middleborough, MA, as well as our publications, affiliated chapters, virtual presentations, and educational events. Our volunteers and members are an active group of professionals, amateurs, and students of archaeology of all ages. For more information, visit www.MassArchaeology.org.