About Us

Formed in 1967, the Society for Historical Archaeology (SHA) is the largest scholarly group concerned with the archaeology of the modern world (A.D. 1400-present). The main focus of the society is the era since the beginning of European exploration. SHA promotes scholarly research and the dissemination of knowledge concerning historical archaeology. The society is specifically concerned with the identification, excavation, interpretation, and conservation of sites and materials on land and underwater. Geographically the society emphasizes the New World, but also includes European exploration and settlement in Africa, Asia, and Oceania. Ethical principles of the society are set forth in Article VII of SHA’s Bylaws and specified in a statement adopted on June 21 2003.

The Society for Historical Archaeology respects the individual and collective rights of its members and the general public. Therefore, in all activities, publications, or events sponsored, endorsed, or maintained by the Society, the Society shall not discriminate on the basis of age, race, color, ethnicity, national origin, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity and expression, marital status, place of birth, or against individuals with disabilities on the basis of disability, and shall comply with all relevant non-discrimination, equal opportunity, and affirmative action legislation, orders, and regulations.

The society is volunteer led.

Officers of the SHA

The Society for Historical Archaeology (SHA) is grounded in principles of stewardship, ethical responsibility, inclusivity, and scholarly excellence. 

The key to the success of the Society for Historical Archaeology (SHA) lies in its commitment to fostering a collaborative, inclusive, and intellectually rigorous community dedicated to the advancement of historical archaeology.