For over 100 years ASNM members have encouraged study and preservation of New Mexico's multicultural heritage through their efforts and activities.
The roots of ASNM begin in the late 1800s, when a number of individuals, most of who were not trained anthropologists let alone archaeologists, recognized the need to preserve New Mexico's heritage. Their efforts have resulted in avocational archaeologists working with professionals to discuss topics of interest, to search for sites, to record their locations, to participate in excavation, analysis, and report writing, and most importantly to preserve these important cultural resources.
The Archaeological Society of New Mexico began informally when several individuals started meeting with Edgar L. Hewett in 1898. Some were already members of the New Mexico Historical Society, founded by L. Bradford Prince in 1883. Even before New Mexico became a state, there was a nucleus of leaders who in 1900 established the Santa Fe Archaeological Society and in 1910 the Archaeological Society of New Mexico.
These organizations have had broader effects. The Antiquities Act of 1906, which is the first federal legislation to regulate use of archaeological sites on federal lands, was strongly backed by the members. "El Palacio" was initially the ASNM newsletter and continues as a major publication by the New Mexico Department of Cultural Affairs.
Today ASNM members participate in an annual meeting where they present results of their own or their local society's projects and learn about the accomplishments of others in the region. To improve their skills and gain experience, they can participate in the certification program and field programs in rock art. ASNM recognizes their contributions through its Archaeology Achievement Award and publication of an annual volume honoring one of the southwest's contributors. ASNM also sponsors several scholarships for students pursuing undergraduate or master's level degrees.
| Archaeological Society of New Mexico P. O. Box 3485 Albuquerque, NM 87190-3485 |
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