An Introduction to Indiana Prehistory is written in order to make available in summary from some of the answers to commonly asked questions about Indiana archaeology and prehistory. The impetus for it derives from the almost daily inquiries archaeologists receive from a varied public, for which archaeology and the numerous evidences of Indian occupation in the state have some attraction. Most commonly it is desired to have an object identified to determine whether it is natural or man-made, and if the latter, for what it was used, how old it is, and what Indiana group made it. The accidental discovery of human burials or the evaluation of a possible Indian mound often involves an archaeologist. Young students request information for inclusion in a class project or to plan programs of study leading to a career in archaeology. Teachers planning field trips and class study units seek out archaeological exhibits on occasion or desire a few artifacts for use in the classroom. In order to complement further an interest in area prehistory, reading lists are requested. And Indiana's businesses with great frequency consult archaeologists in order to comply with federal and state laws affecting construction project that may destroy Indian mounds and villages.
A major portion of the text summarizes in a brief from what is currently known of the prehistoric Indians occupation in our state [this was published in 1993]. While an effort has been made to avoid technical terms, it is inevitable that some are used. Because state boundaries are recent, artificial inventions when contrasted with the thousands of years with which we will be concerned, the discussions will extend beyond the limits of Indiana in order to provide a fuller context for understanding Indiana sites and materials. However, reference is made to Indiana sites and publications in every instance. Because most archeological work has been accomplished in the southern portion of the state, that region is emphasized. Pottery and projectile point forms are commonly used to describe individual cultures because they are items most frequently encountered in the field.
Also included is a brief discussion concerning the history of archaeological research in the state, a bibliography for those desiring to pursue some of the topics in greater depth, a statement regarding university degree programs, and a list of prehistoric sites and museums accessible to the public [available on request, not web published].
It is hoped that this brief overview of Indiana archaeology can provide information of interest. It is also aimed at helping to create some greater awareness of the richness of the American Indian past and increase an appreciation of the diminishing resources for understanding that past. The latter is of real importance because the continuing changes in land usage throughout the state and indiscriminate destruction mean that most, if not all, Indian villages and mounds will have disappeared within a few decades. And an essential portion of mankind's history will be forever lost.