Uploaded November 2025 | Updated September 2026, 6 days ago
What does it mean to “preserve the past to inform the future”? Join host Steve Peck of Wyoming PBS as he sits down with Gwendolyn Kristy, archaeologist with the State Historic Preservation Office, at the Wyoming Archeology Fair, celebrating its 10th anniversary at the Wyoming Territorial Prison State Historic Site in Laramie.
Gwendolyn shares how archaeology connects science and the humanities, what makes Wyoming unique for archaeological research, and how partnerships across state and federal agencies make public events like this possible. Discover how volunteers, students, and professionals come together each year to explore ancient technologies like atlatl spear throwing, ledger art, and petroglyph making—and why archeology is for everyone.
🔎 Topics include:
• The role of archeology in understanding human history
• The difference between archeology and paleontology
• How to become involved in Wyoming’s archeological community
• The history of the Territorial Prison and its restoration
• How archeologists use technology and archival research to uncover the past
Watch now to see how archeology blends discovery, education, and preservation in the Cowboy State.
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⏱️ Timestamps
00:00 Introduction – Archaeology and the Humanities
00:36 What Archaeology Is (and Isn’t)
01:00 Wyoming Archaeology Fair at the Territorial Prison
02:18 How Archaeologists Define “Historic”
03:40 The Importance of Trash to Archeology
05:15 Research Before the Dig: Using Maps & Archives
06:10 Technology in Modern Archeology
07:00 Gwendolyn Kristy’s Education and Career Path
08:30 Why Wyoming is a Unique Archaeology State
10:00 Professionals vs. Avocational Archaeologists
11:00 10th Anniversary of the Wyoming Archaeology Fair
12:00 New Attractions and Hands-On Activities
14:40 Funding Archaeology Events in Wyoming
15:50 What Is an Atlatl? Ancient Technology Explained
17:40 Inspiring the Next Generation of Archaeologists
20:30 Preserving the Past to Inform the Future
22:00 The Work Behind Historic Preservation
24:30 How to Get a “Brown Sign” for Historic Sites
26:00 How to Volunteer in Archaeology in Wyoming
26:28 Closing Remarks
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With Wyoming PBS content you can delve into Wyoming history, explore the breathtaking beauty of our iconic national parks, and immerse yourself in the inspiring tales of Native American leaders, ranching life, the wonders of nature, and the many things to do in Wyoming. Whether you're seeking inspiring narratives or planning your next adventure in our beautiful state, WY PBS is your trusted guide.
Subscribe to our channel: youtube.com/wyomingpbs
Subscribe to our email newsletter: wyomingpbs.org/newsletter-signup-form
Follow us on Facebook: facebook.com/WyomingPBS
Follow us on LinkedIn: linkedin.com/company/wyoming-pbs
#WyomingPBS #WyomingChronicle #archeology #archaeology #PublicArcheology #historicpreservation #wyominghistory #ArcheologyFair #WyomingCulture #Atlatl #indigenoushistory #historicsites #culturalheritage #stemeducation
What does it mean to “preserve the past to inform the future”? Join host Steve Peck of Wyoming PBS as he sits down with Gwendolyn Kristy, archaeologist with the State Historic Preservation Office, at the Wyoming Archeology Fair, celebrating its 10th anniversary at the Wyoming Territorial Prison State Historic Site in Laramie.
Gwendolyn shares how archaeology connects science and the humanities, what makes Wyoming unique for archaeological research, and how partnerships across state and federal agencies make public events like this possible. Discover how volunteers, students, and professionals come together each year to explore ancient technologies like atlatl spear throwing, ledger art, and petroglyph making—and why archeology is for everyone.
🔎 Topics include:
• The role of archeology in understanding human history
• The difference between archeology and paleontology
• How to become involved in Wyoming’s archeological community
• The history of the Territorial Prison and its restoration
• How archeologists use technology and archival research to uncover the past
Watch now to see how archeology blends discovery, education, and preservation in the Cowboy State.
---
⏱️ Timestamps
00:00 Introduction – Archaeology and the Humanities
00:36 What Archaeology Is (and Isn’t)
01:00 Wyoming Archaeology Fair at the Territorial Prison
02:18 How Archaeologists Define “Historic”
03:40 The Importance of Trash to Archeology
05:15 Research Before the Dig: Using Maps & Archives
06:10 Technology in Modern Archeology
07:00 Gwendolyn Kristy’s Education and Career Path
08:30 Why Wyoming is a Unique Archaeology State
10:00 Professionals vs. Avocational Archaeologists
11:00 10th Anniversary of the Wyoming Archaeology Fair
12:00 New Attractions and Hands-On Activities
14:40 Funding Archaeology Events in Wyoming
15:50 What Is an Atlatl? Ancient Technology Explained
17:40 Inspiring the Next Generation of Archaeologists
20:30 Preserving the Past to Inform the Future
22:00 The Work Behind Historic Preservation
24:30 How to Get a “Brown Sign” for Historic Sites
26:00 How to Volunteer in Archaeology in Wyoming
26:28 Closing Remarks
---
With Wyoming PBS content you can delve into Wyoming history, explore the breathtaking beauty of our iconic national parks, and immerse yourself in the inspiring tales of Native American leaders, ranching life, the wonders of nature, and the many things to do in Wyoming. Whether you're seeking inspiring narratives or planning your next adventure in our beautiful state, WY PBS is your trusted guide.
Subscribe to our channel: youtube.com/wyomingpbs
Subscribe to our email newsletter: wyomingpbs.org/newsletter-signup-form
Follow us on Facebook: facebook.com/WyomingPBS
Follow us on LinkedIn: linkedin.com/company/wyoming-pbs
#WyomingPBS #WyomingChronicle #archeology #archaeology #PublicArcheology #historicpreservation #wyominghistory #ArcheologyFair #WyomingCulture #Atlatl #indigenoushistory #historicsites #culturalheritage #stemeducation
