Ottawa– August is Archaeology Month and there’s plenty to do in and around Ottawa for those interested in discovering our region’s rich heritage. Please note that some activities are free while others have a cost associated with participation.
Local Archaeology Month activities include:
- Discover the pre-contact and historical archaeology of Ottawa and the surrounding area through a free exhibit at Ottawa City Hall (near the first floor Information Desk), 110 Laurier Avenue West throughout the month. The exhibit is produced by the City of Ottawa in partnership with the Algonquins of Pikwàkanagàn First Nation (Omamawininni Pimadjwowin – The Algonquin Way Cultural Centre) and the Cultural Education Centre at Kitigan Zibi Anishinabeg First Nation.
- Visit Pinhey’s Point to explore the history, natural heritage and ecosystems of the area and uncover new archaeological secrets. Families can spend time together learning about the history, natural heritage and ecosystems on the site, with activities directed by an archaeologist who will provide interpretation. This free event is at Pinhey’s Point Historic Site, 270 Pinhey’s Point Road, Dunrobin, on August 10, 11 and 12, from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.
- Take the Archaeological Walking Tour of LeBreton Flats, Sunday, August 14, from 2 to 3:30 p.m. (in English). The tour, sponsored by Heritage Ottawa, will highlight some of the archaeological investigations that have been undertaken in LeBreton Flats over the past decade. The tour costs $10 per person.
- Cache 3929: Unearthing the Diefenbunker will have you hunting for top-secret geocaches on the grounds above Canada’s Cold War Museum. This event promises to be lots of fun for geocaching enthusiasts of all ages. The event is at the Diefenbunker, 3929 Carp Road, daily during August, from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. and is offered in both English and French. The cost is $14 for adults, $13 for seniors, $10 for students, $8 for youth (age 6 to 18) and a family rate of $40 (for up to two adults and five youth). Children 5 and under are free. All prices exclude HST.
- Kitigan Zibi Anishinbeg Cultural Centre at 54 Makwa Mikan, Maniwaki, Quebec, features a collection of historic objects, ranging from ceremonial, hunting and trapping items, to canoe and water transportation to military paraphernalia. The cost is $8 per person and it is open all August from 8:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.
- The Algonquin Way Cultural Centre has a collection of approximately 600 objects, including some notable cultural objects, including canoes made by local families, World War I medals, dance regalia, archaeological stone tools, archival photos and newspaper clippings, and information on local indigenous medicines. You can stop by the Centre at 1674 Mishomis Inamo, Pikwàkanagàn, Ontario, any day in August between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. Admission is by donation.
For more information on City programs and services, visit ottawa.ca or call 3-1-1 (TTY: 613-580-2401). You can also connect with us through Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.
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