Hidden Gems: HIS 220–Historical Archaeology
Published December 14, 2025
An archaeologist carefully sketches a rust-colored ceramic vase unearthed during a dig.
Are you interested in learning more about the past through the study of artifacts, documents and oral histories? Would you like to know more about the ways physical objects, such as clothing, tools and architecture, can be used to study race, class, gender and ethnic identities? Then HIS 220–Historical Archaeology is for you!
This course will introduce you to the field of historical archaeology, including the core concepts and practices used to study the past. Examining items—like tools, clothes or furniture from the 1700s and 1800s in North America—will enable you to learn things that can only be discovered by looking closely at those old objects. In addition, you will learn about the methodology of historical research and the description and analysis of historical materials.