JEFFERSON CITY, MO, SEPT. 1, 2021 – Graham Cave State Park staff members invite visitors of all ages to celebrate Archaeology Day 2021 at one of Missouri’s most significant early archaeological landmarks from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 18.
Graham Cave was the first archaeological site in the United States to be designated a National Historical Landmark on Jan. 20, 1961. The event begins at 10 a.m. near the cave entrance with interpretative displays on the historic and prehistoric archaeology, family history exhibits by the Graham family, mammal exhibits, children's games, flintknapping, fire-starter and deer-bone fish-hook demonstrations.
World Atlatl Association members will have demonstrations at the pavilion area and teach the use of the atlatl followed by member competitions from 10 a.m. until mid-afternoon. The atlatl is a tool for hunting designed by early Native American Indians prior to the invention of the bow.
Preregistration is not required. Sturdy hiking boots and a water bottle are recommended.
Sponsors of Archaeology Day include Missouri State Parks, Graham Family Descendants, World Atlatl Association, Montgomery County Retired School Personnel Association and the Montgomery County Historical Society.
The public is strongly encouraged to follow social-distancing guidelines and be proactive in protecting themselves and others.
For more information about Archaeology Day and the park, contact the park office at 573-564-3476. Graham Cave
State Park is located 2 miles west of Danville (Exit 170 on I-70) on Highway TT.
For more information on state parks and historic sites, visit mostateparks.com. Missouri State Parks is a division of the Missouri Department of Natural Resources.