Archaeology Events To Share Humor, Relevance Of Field

DANBURY — Archaeology is relevant, interesting, and even humorous at times. That is the message Dr Nicholas Bellantoni, the state’s archaeologist, and Dr Laurie Weinstein, a professor of anthropology at Western Connecticut State University, will share during events in November.

Dr Bellantoni has examined suspected vampire graves and determined the remains were those of tuberculosis victims and proven reported American Indian artifacts were fakes. Respected for his varied expertise, which includes more than 15 years at the state’s official archaeologist, Dr Bellantoni is known for his ability to share the interesting and unusual aspects of his work.

Dr Bellantoni will discuss forensic archaeology, with a PowerPoint presentation to illustrate his lecture, in two separate events at 2 pm and 3:30 pm on Tuesday, November 11, in Room 329 of White Hall on the WestConn Midtown campus, 181 White Street. The presentations will be free, and the public is invited to hear Dr Bellantoni discuss several recent cases he has solved.

Dr Weinstein predicted that those who attend the discussion will learn something and be entertained at the same time. Seating will be limited, so reservations are required. To reserve a seat for Dr Bellantoni’s lecture, call Dr Weinstein at 837-8453.

Dr Weinstein is set to share some of what she has learned through her own work at another event in November. She will discuss “Thanksgiving — Let Them Eat Turkey: The Wampanoag Indians and the Plymouth Colonists” at 1 pm, on Sunday, November 16, at the Institute for American Indian Studies, 38 Curtis Road (off Route 199) in Washington. She will display slides to illustrate her points. Dr Weinstein also will discuss some of her work related to the Weantinock Indians of Western Connecticut. Dr Weinstein is the general editor of the Native Peoples of the Americas series, which is published by the University of Arizona Press.

Admission to Dr Weinstein’s lecture will be included with museum admission. The cost will be $4 for adults and $2 for those ages 6 to 16. Admission will be free for children under 6. For more information about Dr Weinstein’s lecture, call her at 837-8453 or call the institute at 860-868-0518.