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Archaeology

We promote and preserve Boston's many archaeological resources through curation, excavation, and education.

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The City Archaeology Program was founded in 1983 to protect Boston's irreplaceable archaeological resources. Boston has hundreds of known archaeological sites within the City's borders. Our City archaeologist, Joe Bagley, curates the archaeological collections at the City’s Archaeology Laboratory. He acts as the review and compliance agent for below-ground cultural resources in the City. Bagley also educates the public in archaeology through a number of City programs, and manages Rainsford Island, one of the City’s most important historical holdings.

Please make an appointment if you plan to meet with us. Learn more about our lab's location at 201 Rivermoor Street.

Archaeology
Contact
617-635-3850
archaeology@boston.gov
201 Rivermoor Street
West Roxbury, MA 02132
United States
VISITS BY APPOINTMENT ONLY
Wednesday: 9:00 AM-5:00 PM
Thursday: 9:00 AM-5:00 PM
Friday: 9:00 AM-5:00 PM
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Jump right in

Volunteer with City Archaeology Meet the City Archaeologist Visit the City archives Learn more about City landmarks

Uncovering Boston's history

Watch: Rare find at the Pierce-Hichborn site
An artifact with King William III's face on it found during a dig in the North End.
Watch: 300-year-old gravestone found
Hear the story of a 300-year-old gravestone found during a construction project in Boston.
More videos from Boston Uncovered
We launched a video series highlighting Boston's history.

Archaeology Update

Find out about new discoveries and hear about the latest volunteer opportunities.

Archaeological digs

Boston Latin School
Archaeologists surveyed the front yard of Old City Hall to find evidence of the 1635 Boston Latin School.
Clough House
The Clough House, owned by the Old North Church Association, is located at 21 Unity Street in Boston's North End.
Malcolm X House
Archaeologists conducted a survey at the landmark-designated Malcolm X- Ella Little-Collins House.
Old North Crypt
Archaeologists conducted a dig in the crypt at Old North Church in the North End.
Seaport shipwreck
The remains of a 19th-century lime schooner were discovered during construction at 121 Seaport Boulevard in May 2016.
Training Field Charlestown
The historic Training Field has been an active participant in Charlestown’s history since the 17th century.

Inside a dig

Take a look at how the City Archaeologist conducts a dig — from start to finish.

Learn about our digs

News and announcements

The letter 'B' spelled out in soil
Mar 28

Uncovering Boston's past

Digital Team
Artifact from the Dig Conducted at Old North Church
Sep 16

City of Boston archaeologist discovers trove of artifacts at Old North Church

Mayor's Office
Picture of Old North Church
Jun 20

Mayor Walsh announces archaeological survey at Old North Church

Archaeology
Walk the Freedom Trail
Apr 12

City Archaeologist releases new book on Boston Archaeology and History

Archaeology
More Archaeology news

Meet the City archaeologist

City archaeologist