Office of the State Archaeologist
Preserving Wisconsin's Archaeological Sites
The Office of the State Archaeologist was created by the legislature to preserve the state's archaeological past through documentation, stewardship, and education programs. We provide archaeological information and assistance to Wisconsin residents, Native Nations, state agencies, and local governments to help preserve archaeological resources. We illuminate Wisconsin's deep and recent past by connecting people to history through the identification, research, and preservation of archaeological sites.
Archaeological Site Records
The location of archaeological sites and recorded data are managed by the Office of State Archaeologist in the Archaeological Sites Inventory database.
Information about archaeological sites is protected by state and federal law. Access to the data is restricted and exempt from public disclosure to protect the sites as well as property owner rights.
- Request information about an archaeological site that may be located on your property.
- Report a potential archaeological site. We are always happy to hear about the possible location of a new site.
Protect Sites on Public Lands
Under Wisconsin Statute 44.47, it is illegal to remove artifacts or conduct archaeological research of any kind on state or municipal land (county, civil town, city, village) without a permit from the State Archaeologist. The bottomlands of naturally-occurring lakes and streams, up to the ordinary high water mark, are owned by the State of Wisconsin or municipal governments, and the law also covers submerged sites such as shipwrecks.
Permits are normally given to professional archaeologists who have clear research goals or are completing work required by federal or state law.
Property Tax Exemptions for Sites
Our office works with owners of archaeological sites to determine if they qualify for an incentive program to protect archaeological sites on private land. State statute provides a property tax exemption to an owner who enters a covenant agreement with the Wisconsin Historical Society to protect the site. The archaeological site must be listed in the National Register of Historic Places.
Archaeological Research
The Office of the State Archaeologist conducts archaeological research on Wisconsin's past and shares it through presentations, websites, and publications.
- The Wisconsin Historical Society Press has published many books on Wisconsin archaeology and maritime history.
- For public information on Wisconsin archaeology see The Wisconsin Archaeologist, a journal published by our partners at the Wisconsin Archeological Society.
Public Outreach
We provide public lectures about the state's archaeology and history.
We also partner with the University of Wisconsin-Madison Sea Grant Institute to provide information about our state's rich maritime history and submerged shipwrecks through our website wisconsinshipwrecks.org.
Federal Historic Preservation Grants
As part of the State Historic Preservation Office, the State Archaeologist works with Certified Local Governments to assist with federal Historic Preservation Fund grants to identify important archaeological sites and nominate them to the National Register of Historic Places.
Maritime Preservation
Learn more about Wisconsin's rich maritime heritage and the shipwrecks in its Great Lakes waters.
Maritime Preservation
Resources for
Professional Archaeologists
Access all of our guides, training, and forms for archaeologists.
Professional Resources
Wisconsin Historic Preservation Database
The State Historic Preservation Office manages the state's database of historic resources. Qualified researchers can request access to the database.
Learn More About WHPDTribal Historic Preservation Officers
Learn when you need to submit project materials to the Tribal Historic Preservation Officer (THPO) for Section 106 review and the contact information for Tribal Historic Preservation Officers.
Find THPO Information
Contact Us Today!
You can contact the below offices by phone or by email using the links:
Archaeology: 608-264-6496
Review and Compliance: 608-261-2457
Historic Buildings: 608-264-6502
Burial Sites Preservation: 608-264-6464
National Register of Historic Places: 608-264-6502
Certified Local Governments: 608-264-6512
Report Burial Discovery Emergencies (Toll-Free in WI): 800-342-7834
