Digging into History: A W&L Family Adventure in Archaeology

Students digging in ground

Summer Explorations III 

Digging into History: A W&L Family Adventure in Archaeology 

July 20-23, 2025 (almost full)

REGISTER NOW

Join us for a few days to enjoy the Washington and Lee college experience as a family. We’ll explore the fascinating field of archaeology under the mentorship of Alison Bell, professor of anthropology, a W&L alumna, and faculty member since 2002. Families are invited to discover the methods, technologies, and sources archaeologists use to “see” things that are no longer visible. Taking advantage of the Laboratory of Anthropology, a variety of carefully selected workshops and activities will encourage youth (ages 8 to 16) to challenge themselves in unlocking the past through the study of archaeology.

You can look forward to:

  • Digging, mapping, and interpreting your own archaeological box.
  • Handling artifacts from real excavations on the W&L campus ranging from the back campus where Liberty Hall Academy existed (1782-1803) to the front campus where Graham Hall, a dormitory/academic building, stood (1804-1835).
  • Discovering what W&L and Lexington looked like in the 1800s through careful study of artifacts, architecture, and archival sources.
  • Observing, describing, and discussing the differences between gravestones from a range of centuries in Lexington’s historic Oak Grove Cemetery to gain insights into past communities.

With an emphasis on experiential learning, the program will keep both youth and adults engaged in discovering W&L and Lexington’s past through archaeology. In addition to an exciting lineup of academic adventures, our participants love getting to know each other, talking to our current college student mentors, and using W&L’s excellent recreational and outdoor facilities including the pool, outdoor tennis courts, and the Woods Creek and back campus trails. We will also explore downtown Lexington and its historic markers and buildings. All youth must be accompanied by a registered family member for the duration of the program. 

Space is limited. Register today!

Program Cost: $400 per person

On-Campus Housing (Private Room in Dormitory setting): $75/per person

Faculty Lead

Alison Bell

Alison Bell

Alison Bell ‘91, Professor of Anthropology