Each year the Idaho State Historic Preservation Office organizes and promotes statewide opportunities for the public to learn about Idaho archaeology, history and historic preservation. The Idaho Archaeology and Historic Preservation Month program is a celebration of everything dealing with Idaho's archaeology and history. Events, presentations and programs have been reaching all corners of the state for over 25 years. Please join us in the celebration by attending one of our sponsored events.


Archaeology of Maternity: A Virtual World Tour of Pregnancy, Childbirth, and Maternal Practices by Beth Burgess

This virtual world tour presentation showcases cultural materials in the form of artifacts, features, and artwork from archaeological sites depicting historical practices that focus on feminine and maternal issues. Topics from fertility and birth control, to prenatal, labor and childbirth and post-natal care of mothers and infants as well as other child-rearing practices (e.g., breastfeeding and baby wearing) will be explored.

Light refreshments will be provided.


About the speaker:

Beth Burgess is a Registered Professional Archaeologist and the Cultural Resources Group Lead for Versar, Inc.'s Boise office. She received a B.A. in Spanish and Anthropology from Radford University, Virginia in 2004 and a M.A. from New Mexico State University in 2009. She has conducted archaeological investigations in Idaho, Nevada, New Mexico, Oregon, Texas, Utah, Virginia, and Washington. Beth currently serves as President of the Idaho Archaeological Society and is actively involved in public outreach efforts promoting archaeological education and providing volunteer opportunities to engage archaeology enthusiasts.