The Current Decline in Archaeological Society Memberships in Connecticut: Causes, Effects, and Possible Solutions

Abstract

The archaeological community is composed of professionals and amateurs who want to learn more about the past. Since both segments use information collected by the other, spreading information becomes part of the learning. People write about what they find, others read these reports, and everyone benefits. However, this is happening less and less. The system has broken down and needs to be fixed. We will attempt to find solutions for strengthening the structure of the various archaeological societies and organizations, encouraging new members by broadening the appeal, and exploring an improved system for transferring archaeological information. At the same time we must expand the places receiving archaeological information to include schools and historical societies now only concerned with recent American history. As part of this new program, a statewide research database available any time, anywhere to anyone is being suggested.