Summer Archaeological Field School

June 23 through July 26, 2025

This RPA Certified 6-credit field school covers field and basic laboratory methods in archaeology for data collection, analysis and interpretation of cultural material. Emphasis is placed on archaeological questions, scientific methods, heritage preservation and culture change. The course also provides an introduction to the basics of site management and directing research. It is primarily designed for anthropology students and/or those students interested in pursuing archaeological fieldwork as either a career or life experience. Through hands-on experience, students will master the techniques and theory behind scientific archaeology. The course will provide valuable laboratory and field experience including survey, excavation, recording, mapping, and basic artifact analysis. The field school is open to students from any college who have taken at least one anthropology class. For non-EWC students, registration at EWC is required, as a non-degree-seeking student. Check with your institution to ensure credits are transferable. This is a full-scale 30-day field school, fulfilling the minimal field experience requirements of entry-level Cultural Resource Management employment. 

Register for the Archaeological Field School – ANTH2460

Sunrise Mine

Sunrise Mine was in operation for iron procurement from 1898 to 1980. It was operated by Colorado Fuel and Iron, and was the principle source of iron for their steel plant in Pueblo, CO. CF & I built a company town, known as Sunrise, WY, adjacent to the mine to house workers and their families. The Mine and some of the associated company town site are on the National Register of Historic Places. A handful of mine and town buildings survive, including the first YMCA in Wyoming, which now houses the offices and museum of the Sunrise Historic and Prehistoric Preservation Society (SHAPPS), which partners with EWC to bring field experiences to the general public. These programs enhance the academic field school experience.

POWARS II Site

The POWARS II site is likely the oldest red ochre mine known, and is one of the oldest Native American sites in Wyoming. As long ago as 11,000 years or earlier, ancestors have been visiting the mine to extract the red pigment for such uses as face paint and ritual functions. They left behind traces of other activities in the area as well, and the 2024 field school will continue investigations of areas ancillary to the mine to better understand the ancient use of the local landscape. 

Apply to the Summer 2025

Archaeology Field School

Application form for the Archaeology Field School at Sunrise Mine.

Name(Required)
Mailing Address(Required)
Email(Required)
Please provide the name and email address of one reference who can attest to your preparedness for archaeological field school.
Why would you like to participate in the EWC Archaeology Field School?
Please list any allergies, medical needs, dietary restrictions, or any other planning or safety needs.
Do you plan to bring a personal vehicle for
I understand that the field school may include strenuous activities including, but not limited to, excavation and the use of hand tools, exposure to uneven ground surfaces, carrying heavy loads, camping outdoors, and working in an arid, high-altitude environment. I agree to avoid reckless and careless behavior while participating in the field school, and to heed the instruction of any authorized site manager.
MM slash DD slash YYYY

Steven Howard, PhD

Program Director – Archaeology

3200 W C Street • Torrington, Wyoming 82240