Archaeology Field School
The Oldham County History Center is proud to announce enrollment is now open for its 2026 Archaeology Field School, a hands-on, week-long program for high school students. Running continuously since 2005, the Field School is believed to be the longest-running youth archaeology field program in the Commonwealth of Kentucky.
Unlike classroom simulations, the Field School places students directly in the field alongside professional archaeologists at a genuine excavation site: the Duncan Homestead, an early 1800s property located here in Oldham County. The site is newly under excavation, meaning students will be among the first to uncover its artifacts and stories — a rare opportunity even for adult researchers.
“When a student pulls an artifact out of the ground and realizes a real person held that same object 200 years ago, that’s the moment history becomes real; you begin to understand that we are connected across centuries by these shared human experiences.”
— Dabney Clore, Assistant Director, Oldham County History Center
What Students Experience
Under the supervision of professional archaeologists, Field School participants excavate the Duncan Homestead site, learning proper excavation, mapping, and recording techniques used by working professionals. Students identify, document, and analyze recovered artifacts, gaining insight into Kentucky’s prehistoric and historic cultures. The program concludes with a field trip to a regional historic site — past groups have visited the remarkable Cahokia mounds — placing local history within a sweeping geographic and cultural context.
Archaeology sits at the intersection of history, science, mathematics, and critical thinking — making the program a natural fit for students with a wide range of interests. Students also have direct conversations with professional archaeologists about their careers and educational paths.
Program Details
Eligibility: Students ages 13 and up
Duration: July 6-10th, 2026
Enrollment: Limited to 10 students to ensure a small, intensive experience
Cost: $250 per student. Financial assistance is available — families and educators are encouraged to reach out if cost is a concern.
Location: The History Center is located at 106 N Second Ave in LaGrange, KY. Enrolled participants will be provided with directions to the Duncan Homestead site, located on private property.
About the Oldham County History Center
The Oldham County History Center is dedicated to preserving, interpreting, and sharing the history of Oldham County and the Commonwealth of Kentucky. Through educational programs like the Archaeology Field School, the Center connects students and community members to their shared heritage in meaningful, hands-on ways.