CAS-Denver members play a vital role in investigating, preserving and protecting Colorado’s archaeological past.
About Our Chapter
The Denver Chapter of the Colorado Archaeological Society (CAS-Denver) is one of 9 such chapters state-wide, and one of its most active. The members and friends of the Denver Chapter of the Colorado Archaeological Society are primarily individuals possessing a passion for archaeology in Colorado. We are volunteers and professionals, students and academics, archaeologists and anthropologists, and a whole host of other individuals interested in archaeology. CAS-Denver is recognized by the IRS as a tax exempt, non-profit charitable organization under section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code.
We believe that our goals must include both self-education and educating others about Colorado archaeology. CAS-Denver members play a vital role in investigating, preserving and protecting Colorado’s archaeological past. Since the chapter’s founding by charter in 1947, CAS-Denver has always been made up of both professional and avocational members. Such a mix has provided rare opportunities for non-professional members to participate in serious scientific archaeological investigations and provided professionals with an avid volunteer base. Lifelong friendships have frequently been formed out of such collaboration.
Get Involved
Recent projects have included site surveys (looking for and recording prehistoric and historic sites), trail maintenance on sites open to the public (i.e. site stewardship), excavations, and recording and protecting rock art. In addition, cataloging of finds and specialized laboratory analyses provide continuing opportunities for members to contribute in valuable ways to archaeological investigations.
Although only members can participate in these projects, our lectures and monthly meetings are open to the public. Because of our commitment to preserving the past for the future, members agree to abide by a Code of Ethics.
The chapter also maintains a close connection with the Colorado Council of Professional Archaeologists (CCPA), and with the State Archaeologist’s office, located within the Office of Archaeology and Historic Preservation (OAHP).
Interested in Rock Art? Indigenous ceramics? Stone tools? Artifacts of history? You’ll find these, and many other topics, presented at our monthly meetings. We meet primarily to share knowledge, advocate for archaeology “best practices” within our chapter, host educational opportunities, and occasionally to have fun!