French influence focus of Indiana archaeology month

INDIANAPOLIS — The French influence on state history is the focus of Indiana Archaeology Month in September.

Archaeologists have recorded more than 60,000 archaeological sites in Indiana since the early 1800s, helping shape public understanding of the state’s past. State Historic Preservation Officer Cameron Clark archaeology month provides a way for Indiana residents to discover the pathway to who Hoosiers are today.

French fur traders and missionaries who canoed or otherwise traveled along the Wabash and other Indiana rivers and forests were the main European presence in the area beginning in the mid-1600s to early 17th century, when they helped build frontier outposts that later became cities such as Vincennes, Lafayette and Fort Wayne.

Events celebrating Indiana’s archaeological history are planned throughout Indiana. A list of events is available at: http://www.in.gov/dnr/historic/2836.htm.