Michigan is recognized internationally as an incubator for invention, technology, music, and social movements. This spirit of innovation carries over into the realm of historical archaeology. This year’s SHA Detroit conference plenary session celebrates the contributions and legacies of Michigan’s historical archaeologists, who have long held a reputation in the discipline as innovators. For nearly 70 years, archaeologists in Michigan have had leading roles in developing the field of historical archaeology. Inspired by assemblages of the past, as much as they are motivated to mobilize future opportunities for growth and change, Michigan’s archaeologists are skilled practitioners and proud stewards of the region’s historical archaeological record.  

Plenary speakers will introduce a range of archaeological projects and community-involved initiatives in Michigan, from the decades-long excavations at Fort Michilimackinac to the recent restoration project at the one-time home of Malcolm X, highlighting connections with the conference theme of mobility. Over the past four centuries, Michigan and the Great Lakes that border it have been the nexus of multiple forms of mobility and movements, all of which are visible in the historical archaeological record: shipping, mining, trade, migration, manufacturing, escape, and protest.  Indigenous communities changed in response to the 17^th-century arrival of European goods and alliances brought by missionaries, fur traders, and French settlers to the “Old Northwest,” but they also remained. The opening of the Erie Canal in 1825 created a conduit for migrants, who catalyzed the growth of major industrial cities like Detroit. Cities and towns across southeast Michigan, just across the river from Canada, were key stops on the Underground Railroad. The automotive industry’s manufacturing centers and laborers made Michigan “Arsenal of Democracy” producing trucks and planes for the US military and allies during World War II. Major figures like Rosa Parks, Malcolm X, Grace Lee Boggs, and Rev. C.L. Franklin rooted their civil rights and social justice movements in Detroit.     

The plenary is designed to welcome SHA attendees to the region by familiarizing them with important research and collaborative efforts led by archaeologists who work in a range of professional sectors. Short presentations by plenary speakers will be followed by an interactive discussion involving speakers and the audience.  

Confirmed Speakers include: 

• Dr. Lynn Evans, Curator of Archaeology, Mackinac State Historic Parks  
• Dr. Misty Jackson, Owner and Principal Investigator, Arbre Croche Cultural Resources LLC  
• Dr. Tareq Ramadan, Project Manager, Malcolm X House Historic Preservation Project and Adjunct Professor of Anthropology, Wayne State University   

• Sarah Surface-Evans, Senior Archaeologist, Michigan SHPO

• Marcella Hadden, Tribal Historic Preservation Officer, Saginaw Chippewa Indian Tribe of Michigan