This exciting academy will be held at the Fort Worth Nature Center & Refuge in North Texas on April 27-28, 2024.  The academy will introduce the importance of archeological ceramics in terms of technology, chronology, dating, trade, subsistence, and cultural identity.  Definitions and origins of ceramics technologies, how pottery was decorated, analysis of individual sherds, how pottery is classified or “typed”, and how we interpret these data are aspects of pottery analysis.  The Ceramics Academy is back in person and will provide numerous hands-on exercises, including making pots from modern clay, and identifying vessel types, decorative techniques, and firing.

The Fort Worth Nature Center & Refuge is a natural area comprised of forests, prairies, and wetlands allowing you to step back in time and experience what the Fort Worth/Dallas Metroplex was like in the early 20th century.  This location provides an excellent opportunity for participants to enjoy the Center & Refuge’s many amenities including 12 individual hiking trails, and the Hardwicke Interpretive Visitor Center.

Instructors: Marybeth Tomka, Rebecca Shelton, and Allen Rutherford. The North Texas Archeological Society will support this academy as the Local Arrangements Committee.

The academy is scheduled for the weekend of April 27-28, 2024; registration deadline is April 12, 2024. The registration fee ($125) plus TAS membership is for two days instruction including refreshments and lunches; and will include a digital manual. A certificate of participation will be awarded to attendees. Continuing Professional Education (CPE) credit is available for teachers as approved by the Texas State Board of Education Certification (SBEC). No previous archeological experience is needed to enjoy this academy.

Scholarship opportunities are available! https://www.txarch.org/TAS-Scholarships-Overview