This photo is of the Division of Historic Preservation’s state archaeologists examining and sifting through Indian relics in the article “Remnants of Vermont Past” in the Autumn 1978 issue of Vermont Life (Vol. 33 Issue 1). This article introduces a fascinating take on the newfound role of archaeology at the time, drawing attention to the Division for Historic Preservation. Archaeology reports are being used to “help educate municipalities and planning commissions and above everything else, let them know that there are hundreds of archaeological sites out there and that we need to be concerned with all of them.” Prior to the introduction of state archaeology, much of the digging and research was done by amateurs. State archaeology became quite popular in 1975 by the Vermont Historic Preservation Act.

Environmentalism is configured within an archaeological lens in this article, with concepts of land preservation and planning mentioned quite frequently. Environmentalism is portrayed in a very structured, yet nostalgic aura, as it justifies archaeological use to uncover and reminisce on Vermont’s past, while also introducing new scientific methodologies to perform meaningful research.

Source: Remnants of Vermont Past, Vermont Life. Vol. 33, Iss. 1