There are several organizations that encourage interest and education in
archaeology by members of the public. Some of these organizations are
listed below.
The first is the _Texas Archaeological Society, Center for
Archaeological Research, University of Texas at San Antonio, San
Antonio, TX 78285_. This society is composed of avocational
archaeologists from all walks of life. It holds an annual meeting in the
fall during which members present papers on various aspects of Texas
archaeology. Each summer the society also organizes a field school where
members can participate in excavation of an archaeological site under
the supervision of a professional archaeologist. The society also
publishes a high-quality bulletin about Texas archaeology.
Another organization that promotes archaeology is the _Archaeological
Institute of America_. This organization has its national headquarters
in Washington, D.C., and schedules national lecture tours by
archaeologists who visit local chapters in major cities. The lectures
are offered six times a year, and present the results of archaeological
investigations world-wide.
In addition, local or county archaeological societies can be contacted
for information about archaeology in Texas. If such an organization does
not currently exist in your community, perhaps you could start one!
Discovery of archaeological remains, particularly destruction of
archaeological properties, deserves official attention. To report such
events and to obtain information about the State’s efforts in protecting
archaeological and historical resources, contact: _Texas Historical
Commission, P.O. Box 12276, Capitol Station, Austin, TX, 78711_.