Chattahoochee Valley Historical Society

"Archaeology for Dummies"

The Spring program of CVHS will be held virtually on April 28th, at 3:00 PM (EDT). Our presenter will be David Johnson. Mr. Johnson is an “avocational archaeologist,” meaning that he came to practice archaeology outside of the traditional profession. In spite of not being an “official” archaeologist, he works very closely with the Alabama Archaeological Society. His area of specialty concerns the prehistoric indigenous populations of Alabama. He has published several books over the years and given many presentations throughout Alabama (and also Mississippi and elsewhere). His presentation for us will be entitled “Archaeology for Dummies” (not an insult to those in attendance, but rather a play on the title of various media that break down complex fields and concepts for unfamiliar readers).

David Johnson originally worked for the Alabama Department of Transportation. The discovery of prehistoric artifacts on his private property, however, led him to become fascinated by the field of archaeology. Realizing that he, a layperson with no previous experience or training in archaeology, was ill-equipped or prepared to handle these artifacts properly, he consulted local professional archaeologists. They showed him the proper ways of cataloging and recording their discoveries for the purposes of preservation and education. Through working with them (and learning how they carried out their practice), David became personally enraptured in the world of amateur (or as he calls it, “avocational”) archaeology. He began to realize that others like him (with no previous archaeological training or expertise) would need the same know-how and assistance should they also discover prehistoric artifacts. While continuing his work with ALDOT, he also began sharing this newfound passion with other “lay people.”

David has authored many books, most notably the Handbook for Alabama’s Prehistoric Indians and Artifacts (Borgo Press, 2019). This work also saw contributions from many of the professional archaeologists in the Alabama Archaeological Society. The work contains many full-scale photographs, geographic distribution charts, and detailed descriptions of various artifacts (such as prehistoric projectile points). Due to the popularity of the book in Alabama, he was also asked to publish a similar catalogue for Mississippi as well (which he will be discussing in his presentation, as it has recently been published).

Retired from the Alabama Department of Transportation, David and his wife April volunteer working with different archaeological projects and providing educational presentations to schools and other groups regarding archaeology and prehistory. He is also currently working with many Native American groups to help preserve various Native archaeological sites on Chandler Mountain in St. Claire County, AL from local developers’ plans to create a massive dam project.

Our virtual presentation will last approximately one hour (with David’s power points lasting approximately 45 to 50 minutes). The presentation will expound upon his work on the two archaeological works (for Alabama and Mississippi) as well as an overview of how “avocational” archaeological enthusiasts can participate and experience the world of archaeology in an official, responsible manner (respectful of the cultures and peoples whose artifacts are being discovered). His is a tale that exemplifies the potential that exists when professional archeologists endeavor to include ordinary lay people through educating and mentoring nonprofessionals.

Join us for this very informative and interesting presentation on April 28th. To attend this virtual meeting email ccpowers02@gmail.com prior to 12:00 PM noon (EDT) on Sunday, April 28th. You will then be sent the Zoom link with instructions regarding how to join the meeting.