In 1959, the Mackinac Island State Park Commission contracted with Michigan State University to carry out a season of excavation at Michilimackinac. Thus began an archaeological project that has continued every summer since, one of the longest ongoing projects of its kind.
From mid-June to late August, Mackinac area visitors can watch archaeology in progress every day from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. (weather permitting) at Colonial Michilimackinac in Mackinaw City–the site of a reconstructed 18th-century fort and fur-trading village. An interpreter is on site to answer visitor questions, explain the process, and show sample artifacts.
Learn more about archaeology at Colonial Michilimackinac.
Learn more about archaeology at Fort Mackinac.
Learn more about archaeology at Old Mackinac Point Lighthouse.
Learn more about archaeology at Historic Mill Creek Discovery Park.
Learn more about archaeology at Mackinac Island State Park.
Learn more about archaeology at Mackinac Island’s Historic Downtown buildings.