2025 Annual Meeting

The IAAA 2025 Annual Meeting is May 2^nd through 4^th in Robinson and Flat Rock, IL. We welcome all members to our “Early Pathways into Southeastern Illinois” presentation. The Central Wabash Archaeology Chapter (CWAC) is truly excited to host this event and promise  diverse experiences about the first immigrants entering southeast and central Illinois.

Friday, May 2^nd, 2025

12-9 p.m. – Crawford County Historical and Archaeological Museum at 408 S. Cross St., Robinson, IL. A welcome reception will be held at our Archaeological Museum commencing at 6pm. Light refreshments will be served.

5:30-8 pm – We have reserved a dining room for IAAA attendees at Monical’s Pizza, 1703 W. Main St. in Robinson, IL. This will be a Dutch Treat supper.

The CWAC is pleased to showcase the extensive displays at our Archaeological Museum, and share great food and fellowship at Monical’s Pizza. 

Saturday, May 3^rd, 2025

Flat Rock Community Center, 104 S. Central Ave. Flat Rock, IL

8-9 a.m. – Registration/light breakfast (Breakfast, lunch, and supper included in registration fee.)

9-11 a.m. – IAAA Business meeting

Break for catered lunch

12 p.m. –  Speakers featuring:

• Greg Parrott will discuss the earliest events and people shaping settlement and travel from Vincennes, IN into central Illinois.
• CWAC members, Carlolyn Stephens/Bob Maxwell and Barbara Ross/Marilyn Manning will then discuss events and people along the early roads from Vincennes, IN to Charleston, IL.
• Purgatory Swamp, the buffalo traces, the Palestine Land Grant office, Hubbard’s Trace, and the Lincoln family migration are some highlights of these discussions.

2-2:30 p.m. –  Break with snacks

2:30-4 p.m. –  Speakers featuring:

• Lynn Stephens will discuss the Native American presence with findings of the “Ellis Site” excavation.
• Mary De LaGarza, Iowa State University, will introduce the Sunday drone /lidar presentation and give an overview of the technology used.
• 12-5:30 pm – Archaeological Museum open for tours. Fort Lamotte in Palestine will be open for touring. Maps will be furnished.
• 6 p.m. – Bonfire with wiener roast and fixings, baled straw seating at the 1800’s “Barn”. 1253 N 2040th St., Flat Rock, IL 62427. Lawn chairs and appropriate clothing needed. Food and drink furnished. Maps will be furnished. Watch for signage along Highway 33.
• 7 p.m. – Noted French-Indian reenactor, Tony Gerard. Bring your family.

Sunday May 4^th, 2025

At the “Barn”

8 – 9 a.m. – Sign in with coffee and donuts (included)

9 a.m. – 12 p.m. – Mary de La Garza and Lucas Howser will share findings and insights into the nearby LiDAR surveyed 1800’s pioneer trail, an excavated log cabin, an early pioneer cemetery, and the 1800’s “Barn.” Guided tours will be provided.  Walking footwear is recommended.

12 – 3 p.m. – Museum open.

Visit our Facebook page at “Central Wabash Archeology Chapter” for local directions to our venues. Paper maps will be available at our events.  Accommodations for motels and BNBs are also available on Facebook.

The $25.00 per person registration fee covers all activities and food for Saturday and Sunday. 

Please reply by April 19^th, 2025 to accommodate meal planning (vegan choices will be available).

Please mail the below info and check to: Crawford County Archeological Society, Attn: CWAC Treasurer, 408 S Cross Street,  ROBINSON, IL 62454 . Make checks payable to CWAC.

Pre-registration is preferred, but registration and payment will be accepted at the door. Questions?

Please email:cldougla@gmail.com.