Public Enjoyment

Researchers can request access to archeological collections stored at MWAC. Here an archeologist takes detailed photographs of pottery for his research in the Great Lakes region.

The National Park Service preserves special places and objects for the people: past, present, and future.

In addition to ensuring that park archeological collections from the past 50+ years are preserved far into the future, we also provide access to collections for educational, research, and publishing purposes. Center and park museum staff work together to share information with other National Park Service employees, outside researchers, and the public about the diverse archeological record represented in park collections at the Center. With park approval, collections are made available to qualified researchers for use at the Center. Collections are also used by park and Center staff to educate the public through traditional exhibits, online learning, and a variety of publications.

The Center offers distance learning to highlight NPS archeology and the role of artifact collections in building knowledge about the past. Here, a technician shares about ceramics and stone tool technology with elementary students in a videoconference.

Park and MWAC staff use collections in public exhibits. This exhibit, created to celebrate MWAC’s 50th anniversary, was displayed in the Denney Federal Building lobby in 2019. It also provided a valuable training opportunity for museum interns who researched and developed it.