The heart of local archaeology lies in community societies, charitable foundations, museums, galleries, groups, influencers, podcasts, and resources. This list of archaeology societies, charities, and groups is a work in progress. For additions, deletions, and edits, please email [email protected].
Online resources
Career in Ruins
A unique take on the world as seen by archaeologists. This podcast features interviews with leading professionals.
Cultural Evolution Society
The Cultural Evolution Society promotes the study of cultural evolution in research and practice.
Digital Maps of the Ancient World
Digital Maps are useful for those studying Ancient History and Archaeology, who would like to gain a better understanding of certain sites or where certain events took place.
The Enabled Archaeology Foundation
The EAF’s goal is to remove the barriers and stigmas towards dis/Abilities in archaeology. It enables many to see for the first time through an increased familiarity of dis/Abled participants how valuable, skilled, experienced, and talented we all are in archaeology.
Australia
The Mediterranean Archaeology Australian Research Community (MAARC)
MAARC is intended to facilitate a sense of community and encourage interaction, communication, and collaboration between those researching the archaeology of the ancient Mediterranean, in the broadest possible sense.
Canada
ActiveHistory.ca
ActiveHistory.ca connects the work of historians with the wider public and the importance of the past to current events.
Archaeological Society of British Columbia
Established in 1966, the ASBC aims to educate British Columbians about archaeology and to protect archaeological sites and materials in B.C.
Association des Archéologues du Québec
Founded in 1979, the Association of Professional Archaeologists of Quebec (AAQ) is a non-profit organization bringing together professional archaeologists and archaeologists in training, whose expertise allows them to serve the public, and in particular individuals, institutions, organizations, and public bodies that may use their services.
Canadian Latin-American Archaeology Society
The Canadian Latin-American Archaeology Society is a scholarly non-profit organization that promotes the study of the ancient civilizations of Latin America.
Institute of Prairie and Indigenous Archaeology (IPIA)
The IPIA is an Indigenous-led institute with a commitment to continuing to support Indigenous-engaged archaeological research, developing pedagogical approaches to integrating Indigenous ways of knowing and being into archaeological teaching and training, and changing cultural heritage policies in response to the needs of Indigenous communities in western Canada.
Newfoundland and Labrador Archaeological Society
This Society enables professionals and the public to meet, embrace archaeology in Newfoundland and Labrador, and protect archaeological resources by fostering research, stewardship, education, and the exchange of ideas and information between professionals and the public.
Ontario Archaeological Society
The Ontario Archaeological Society is a registered charitable organization that promotes the ethical practice of archaeology in the Province of Ontario and beyond.
Royal Ontario Museum (ROM)
The Royal Ontario Museum showcases art, culture, and nature from around the world and across the ages.
Saskatchewan Archaeological Society (SAS)
The SAS is dedicated to the education and conservation of archaeology by promoting responsible stewardship of Saskatchewan’s rich and diverse archaeological heritage.
England
The Architectural Heritage Fund (AHF)
The Architectural Heritage Fund (AHF) is a registered charity, working since 1976 to promote the conservation and sustainable re-use of historic buildings for the benefit of communities across the UK, particularly in economically disadvantaged areas.
Association of Local Government Archaeological Officers (ALGAO)
The Association provides a forum representing archaeologists working for local authorities and national parks throughout the U.K. Its members are professional archaeologists employed by local authorities to provide advice on archaeological conservation and management.
Brighton & Hove Archaeological Society
The Society is an amateur archaeological society based in the Brighton and Hove area, in the county of Sussex that promotes the study and appreciation of archaeology and local history and ensures the proper recording and preservation of local antiquities and the area’s heritage.
British Museum
The British Museum and its eight million objects allow visitors to explore the diversity of human cultures, from small communities to vast empires, to discover the many forms and expressions human beings have given to every aspect of life, and to realize how closely they are interconnected.
Butser Ancient Farm
Butser Ancient Farm is an experimental archaeology site in the South Downs National Park that welcomes visitors and education groups to the site throughout the year.
Chartered Institute for Archaeologists (CIfA)
CIfA is a professional body representing archaeologists working in the U.K. and overseas.
Cheshire Local History Association
The Cheshire Local History Association was formed in 1998 to continue and extend the activities of what used to be known as the County Palatine of Chester Local History Committee of the Cheshire Community Council. It is a gathering of history societies, academic institutions, record depositories, and local authority supporters who have an interest in the preservation and wider understanding of the history of the ancient County Palatine.
Chester Archaeological Society
The Society, founded in 1849, has interests that extend over the county of Cheshire (including Wirral and parts of Greater Manchester) plus neighboring areas, and include archaeology, history, architectural history, and conservation.
Council for British Archaeology
Founded in 1944, the Council champions and helps safeguard archaeology and public participation. As the voice of archaeology in the U.K., it brings together community groups, commercial units, academics, and heritage organizations to create and share opportunities to discover, take part in, and be inspired by archaeology.
Crofton Roman Villa
Crofton Roman Villa is Greater London’s only Roman villa open to the public. It was occupied from about AD 140 to 400 and was the center of a farming estate of about 500 acres.
Culver Archaeological Project
CAP was founded in 2005 to investigate the historic landscape surrounding the Barcombe villa complex and has developed over the years to research the historical environment of the alluvial plain of the Upper Ouse Valley in the parishes of Barcombe and Ringmer.
Durotriges Project
The Durotriges Project is a multi-disciplinary investigation into the prehistoric and Roman societies of central southwestern Britain, conducted by staff and students of the Department of Archaeology, Anthropology, and Forensic Science of Bournemouth University working in cooperation with students from other universities, schools, sixth form colleges, and a team of dedicated local volunteers.
English Heritage
English Heritage cares for more than 400 historic buildings, monuments, and sites, including prehistoric sites, medieval castles, Roman forts, and war bunkers. Through these, it brings the story of England to life for over 10 million people each year.
The Explorers Club – Great Britain and Ireland Chapter
Founded in New York City in 1904, The Explorers Club GB promotes the scientific exploration of land, sea, air, and space in Great Britain and Ireland by supporting research and education in the physical, natural, and biological sciences.
Federation of Archaeological Managers & Employers (FAME)
FAME is the distinctive voice of archaeological employers and managers, and the only organization solely devoted to representing their interests within the profession and the business world.
Forestry England
For more than 100 years, Forestry England has been growing, shaping, and caring for more than 1,500 of England’s forests.
Hadrian’s Wall Community Archaeology Project
The Hadrian’s Wall Community Archaeology Project (WallCAP) examines the landscape heritage of the Hadrian’s Wall corridor and World Heritage Site (WHS) by building a community-based network, guided and trained by professionals.
Hallaton Field Work Group
Hallaton Field Work Group is a community heritage group involved in practical archaeology — fieldwalking, geophysics, and excavation.
Historic England
Historic England is the public body that helps people care for, enjoy, and celebrate England’s spectacular historic environment.
History Hit
History Hit brings you the stories that shaped the world through its award-winning podcast network and an online history channel.
Headland Archaeology
An independent company providing heritage consultancy and archaeological contracting services to a wide spectrum of development & heritage sector clients.
International Congress of Maritime Museums (ICMM)
ICMM brings maritime museum professionals together from all over the world for regular conferences, creating a strong network of maritime museums and people.
Isle of Wight National Trust
The National Trust on the Isle of Wight oversees 5,000 acres of countryside, 17 miles of coastline, and five historic places.
Later Prehistoric Finds Group
The Later Prehistoric Finds Group (LPFG) is open to anyone interested in the material culture of the Bronze Age and Iron Age. It aims to promote the study, understanding, and appreciation of later prehistoric artifacts and to act as a forum for discussion on related topics.
London & Middlesex Archaeological Society (LAMAS)
LAMAS was founded in 1855 for the purpose of investigating the antiquities and early history of the Cities of London and Westminster and the Metropolitan County of Middlesex.
Maritime Archaeology Sea Trust
MAST are leaders in U.K. maritime heritage. Work, aside from active maritime archaeological projects, includes heritage management, public education, and campaigning.
Medieval Graffiti
The Norfolk Medieval Graffiti Survey was established in 2010 to undertake the first large-scale survey of early graffiti inscriptions in the U.K.
Metal Detectives Group
The Metal Detectives Group arranges and organizes Metal Detecting digs and rallies for metal detecting enthusiasts in various locations around the south of England.
Museum of London Archaeology (MOLA)
MOLA is an experienced, innovative archaeology and built heritage practice. It has been providing independent, professional heritage advice and services for more than 40 years across the U.K. and internationally on schemes both large and small.
National Trust South East
This Trust protects and cares for places so people and nature can thrive. It looks after hundreds of houses and close to a million objects, along with vast areas of coastline, countryside, and green spaces, for everyone’s benefit.
Nautical Archaeology Society
The Society is a world leader in the discipline of nautical archaeology both underwater and on the foreshore.
Norfolk & Norwich Archaeological Society (NNAS)
The Norfolk and Norwich Archaeological Society is for all people fascinated by the history, archaeology, buildings, and ancient sites of Norfolk.
Portable Antiquities Scheme
The Portable Antiquities Scheme is run by the British Museum and Amgueddfa Cymru–National Museum Wales to encourage the recording of archaeological objects found by members of the public in England and Wales.
Roman Finds Group
The Roman Finds Group (RFG) provides a forum for all those with an interest in Roman artifacts. Founded in 1987, its membership is both professional and amateur, and new members are always welcome.
Roman Roads Research Association
The Roman Roads Research Association was formed to advance knowledge of the Roman road network and promote the study of Roman roads and Roman heritage throughout the British Isles.
Save Old Oswestry
This group exists to collect and collate information on Old Oswestry Hillfort, including sightings of flora and fauna, views, and weather.
Society for Museum Archaeology
The Society for Museum Archaeology promotes the interest in archaeology in museums and offers support to everyone working with archaeological collections.
The Society for Post-Medieval Archaeology
The Society for Post-Medieval Archaeology is a European society for the study and promotion of historical archaeology that welcomes global perspectives on the archaeology of the post-medieval world up to the present day and beyond.
Sussex Archaeological Society
Founded in 1846, the Sussex Archaeological Society’s charitable aim is to enable people to enjoy, learn about, and have access to the heritage of Sussex.
Thames Discovery Programme
The Thames Discovery Programme aims to communicate an understanding and informed enjoyment of the historic Thames to the widest possible audience.
Vectis Archaeological Trust (VAT)
Isle of Wight charity championing local archaeology, landscape, and heritage. Improving public knowledge and understanding of the historic environment.
Waterloo Uncovered
This charity combines world-class archaeology with veteran care and recovery.
Waveney Valley Community Archaeology
This is a community archaeology group for the wider Waveney Valley, from Diss to Lowestoft and beyond.
Weardale Museum
The Weardale Museum was formed in 1984 when a small group of volunteers took advantage of a renovation scheme at High House Chapel to change the use of the adjoining former manse into a museum preserving the history and heritage of the Dale. A charitable trust was set up and in May 1985 the museum opened to its first visitors.
Welwyn Archaeological Society
Tony and Merle Rook founded the organization in 1960 after the discovery of Roman tiles being dumped on a spoil-heap during the construction of a motorway. This led to the discovery of Dicket Mead Roman Villa. The Society was able to preserve the remains of the Roman baths in a steel vault 30ft under the A1(M) motorway in Welwyn, Hertfordshire.
Wessex Archaeology
Wessex Archaeology is a provider of archaeological and heritage services, and an educational charity.
Worcestershire Archaeological Society
The Worcestershire Archaeological Society has been promoting the study of archaeology and local history in Worcestershire since 1854.
Ireland
The Friends of Medieval Dublin
The Friends of Medieval Dublin is a study group whose aim is to increase knowledge about medieval Dublin.
Heritage Ireland
Heritage Ireland is the custodian of Ireland’s built heritage–national monuments, historic buildings, museums, parks, and gardens–run by the Office of Public Works.
IAC
IAC is an award-winning archaeological and built heritage consultancy with offices in Dublin, Waterford, and Belfast.
Irish Association of Professional Historians
The Irish Association of Professional Historians draws together scholars from numerous historical fields and practices. Founded in 2013, IAPH encourages research, debate, and collegiality, supporting members with opportunities for developing expertise and promoting their work.
Irish Archaeology
A blog/social channel sharing Ireland’s amazing archaeology as well as interesting sites from around the world through online articles, images, and archaeology-inspired shop. Blog by Wexford archaeologists Colm Moriarty and Adrienne Corless.
Irish Historic Towns Atlas (IHTA)
The IHTA project was established in 1981 to record the topographical development of a selection of Irish towns both large and small.
Scotland
Archaeology Scotland
Archaeology Scotland is an educational charity working to inspire people to discover, explore, care for, and enjoy Scotland’s archaeological heritage.
Archaeology Shetland
A group dedicated to the archaeology of Shetland and a way for the enthusiast and the professional to come together.
Caithness Broch Project
The Caithness Broch Project is a Scottish charity dedicated to the promotion, preservation, and conservation of Caithness archaeology and heritage sites.
Can You Dig It
This group is the voice of the Galloway Glens LP community archaeology project.
Historic Scotland
Historic Scotland leads Scotland’s historic environment strategy called Our Place in Time, which sets out how its historic environment is managed. It ensures the historic environment is cared for, valued, and enhanced, both now and for future generations.
National Museums Scotland
National Museums Scotland’s mission is to preserve, interpret, and make accessible for all, the past and present of Scotland, other nations and cultures, and the natural world.
Scottish Society for Northern Studies
The Scottish Society for Northern Studies (SSNS) was founded in 1968 to explore the inter-relationships between the Scandinavian, Celtic, and Scottish cultures.
Scotland’s Archaeology Strategy
The group advocates for a Scotland where archaeology is for everyone. A place where the study of the past offers opportunities for us now and in the future to discover, care for, promote, and enjoy our rich and diverse heritage, contributing to our wellbeing and knowledge and helping to tell Scotland’s stories in their global context.
Shetland Amenity
Created in 1983, the Shetland Amenity Trust constantly strives to preserve and enhance everything that is distinctive about Shetland’s cultural and natural heritage, promoting access to it whether physical or intellectual.
Society of Antiquaries of Scotland
Founded in 1780 and incorporated by Royal Charter in 1783, the Society’s purpose is “to investigate both antiquities and natural and civil history in general, with the intention that the talents of humanity should be cultivated and that the study of natural and useful sciences should be promoted.”
Trimontium Trust
The Trust is a charitable organization with an interest is in the Roman Fort at Newstead, Melrose, and the associated Roman Iron Age in Southern Scotland.
United States
Antiquities Coalition
The Antiquities Coalition is leading the international campaign against cultural racketeering — the illicit trade in ancient art and artifacts.
The Arc/k Project
The Arc/k Project, a nonprofit 501(c)(3) organization, digitally archives that which is too valuable, too important, and too unique to be lost or forgotten. As great as the palaces of Versailles or as humble as a discarded arrowhead, our cultural heritage defines who and what we are—and we can all play a vitally important role in preserving it.
Cleveland Archaeological Society
A local society of the Archaeological Institute of America, the Cleveland Archaeology Society promotes archaeology by hosting an annual lecture series and other events.
Society for American Archaeology
International organization dedicated to the research, interpretation, and protection of the archaeological heritage of the Americas.
Wales
Clwyd-Powys Archaeological Trust
The Clwyd-Powys Archaeological Trust was established in 1975 and its objective is the education of the public in archaeology. CPAT is one of four Welsh Archaeological Trusts working closely with other national, regional, and local bodies to help conserve, understand and promote all aspects of the historic environment in Wales.
Comisiwn Brenhinol Henebion Cymru (CBHC) Royal Commission on the Ancient and Historical Monuments of Wales (RCAHMW)
The Royal Commission on the Ancient and Historical Monuments of Wales has a leading national role in developing and promoting an understanding of the archaeological, built, and maritime heritage of Wales.
Dyfed Archaeology
Dyfed Archaeological Trust is an independent organization dedicated to the protection, investigation, recording, and promotion of its historic environment.
