OPEN2 Simulated Excavation for Classrooms

The "Old Pueblo Educational Neighborhood" (OPEN2) program allows children and adults to learn what archaeology is all about by excavating in "OPEN2," a full-scale model of an archaeological site. The OPEN2 site is a "simulated dig" that archaeologists have constructed to resemble a southern Arizona Hohokam Indian village ruin. It has full-size replicas of prehistoric pit-houses and outdoor features that the Hohokam used for homes, cooking, storing things, and other (sometimes surprising) purposes.

The archaeologists have buried thousands of artifacts at the OPEN2 dig site, including authentic prehistoric pottery, stone tools, and seashell jewelry. Children and adults participating in the OPEN2 program get to learn and practice techniques that archaeologists use to excavate real archaeological sites. They are also exposed to scientific interpretations about what ancient people looked like, what they ate, how they constructed their houses, what language they spoke, what they believed in, and how they created beauty in their lives.

Old Pueblo provides all equipment and supplies needed for the program, and shade is provided for the outdoor activities. However, participants must wear protective clothing that includes long pants, a hat, and shoes that completely cover the feet (no sandals, thongs, or other open-toed shoes, please). Sun block lotion is also highly recommended.

Just as real archaeologists don't collect ancient artifacts for themselves, OPEN2 dig participants do NOT get to keep any of the artifacts they dig up. Though some of the artifacts buried in the OPEN2 site are modern replicas of ancient artifacts, most of them are authentic prehistoric items, some of which are on loan to Old Pueblo Archaeology Center from the Arizona State Museum, University of Arizona.

For children 8 years and up. For program details, call Old Pueblo's office at (520) 798-1201.