Great Plains Archaeology

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An Oral History of Indigenous Archaeologies with Dr. Joe Watkins - Ruins Ep 139 - Ep 17

Hey everyone! KU just returned from Spring Break where Carlton gave a talk at the Chicago Field Museum and he has students defending their M.A. Theses. So he needs to focus on getting the next generation of Anthro/Museology students across the finish line! So for episode 17, we are releasing an Encore episode from the A Life in Ruins Podcast.

Also! Carlton is hosting a Live Show on the APN Discord Channel on Sunday, April 20th at 12pm U.S. Central Time. The topic of the show will be “Cultural Heritage Sovereignty in North America’s Great Plains”

On this episode, Carlton has a solo interview with a leading figure in Indigenous Archaeologies - Dr. Joe Watkins. Dr. Watkins is a Citizen of the Choctaw Nation and has been an advocate for archaeological collaboration with Indigenous Communities throughout his career as an archaeologist. Carlton explores Dr. Watkins' career in Archaeology and the history and continued importance of Indigenous Archaeologies.

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From the Woods to the Farm: Transformations in the Central Plains - Ep 16

In this episode of The Great Plains Archaeology Podcast, we examine the shift from the Late Plains Woodland Period to the emergence of the Early Plains Village tradition in the Central Plains. We explore the changes in settlement patterns, subsistence strategies, and social organization that accompanied this transition, from increased maize agriculture to the development of more permanent villages. What drove these transformations, and how did they set the foundation for later Central Plains societies? Join us as we unpack the archaeological evidence and discuss what this pivotal period reveals about the resilience and adaptability of Plains communities.

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Plains Woodland Pathways: Kansas City Hopewell - Ep 15

In this episode of The Great Plains Archaeology Podcast, we explore the Plains Woodland Period and the vast networks that connected the Great Plains to the Midwest and Southeast. Focusing on the Kansas City Hopewell, we examine the evidence for long-distance exchange, ceremonial traditions, and social ties that linked Plains communities with broader cultural movements. We also discuss Late Woodland feasting events and their role in setting the stage for later interactions with Mississippian cultures. Join us as we uncover how these early connections shaped the cultural landscape of the Plains before the rise of the Mississippian world.

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The Shawnee Nation in Civilization 7 - Ep 14

In this episode of The Great Plains Archaeology Podcast, we dive into the history of Indigenous representation in the Sid Meier’s Civilization series. From early portrayals to the groundbreaking collaboration with the Shawnee for Civilization 7, we explore how gaming has shaped public perceptions of Indigenous histories. Our discussion unpacks the importance of authentic representation, the role of Indigenous-led initiatives in game development, and how community engagement can create more accurate and meaningful narratives. Tune in as we examine what this means for archaeology, public education, and the future of Indigenous storytelling in digital spaces.

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Classifying the Past: The Great Plains Taxonomic System - Ep 13

In this episode of the Great Plains Archaeology Podcast, host Carlton Shield Chief Gover unpacks the history and evolution of the Great Plains taxonomic system—the framework used by archaeologists to categorize and understand cultural periods in the region. From the early development of typologies to modern refinements, this system has shaped how researchers interpret the archaeological record of the Plains.

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Honoring Lance Foster: A Legacy of Indigenous Advocacy and Archaeology - Ep 12

In this heartfelt episode of the Great Plains Archaeology Podcast, host Carlton Shield Chief Gover pays tribute to the late Lance Foster, the Tribal Historic Preservation Officer (THPO) for the Ioway Tribe. Lance was a passionate advocate for Indigenous heritage, a dedicated scholar, and a guiding voice in the preservation of Ioway history and culture. His work bridged the worlds of archaeology, history, and Indigenous knowledge, ensuring that the stories of the past were honored and protected for future generations.

Join us as we reflect on Lance Foster’s contributions to the field, his leadership in cultural preservation, and the profound impact he had on those who worked alongside him. Through personal memories and reflections, this episode celebrates his enduring legacy and the vital role he played in Indigenous archaeology and historic preservation. Whether you knew Lance personally or are learning about him for the first time, this tribute recognizes a life dedicated to protecting and uplifting the histories of the Great Plains.

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Encore - An Introduction to Plains/Pawnee Archaeology - A Life in Ruins Podcast - Ep 150 - Ep 11

Happy New Year! The Archaeology Podcast Network took a break for the Holiday. So for episode 11, we are releasing an Encore episode from the A Life in Ruins Podcast.

In this episode, Carlton does another solo lecture-style episode. The subject of this lecture? An introduction to Great Plains archaeology with a focus on Pawnee archaeological ancestry. The episode starts off with very introductory history of the Pawnee in the 17th, 18th, and 19th century. Then Carlton dives into Great Plains geography and culture history. The episode ends with a focus on the ethnogenesis and the archaeological cultures that contributed to the development of Pawnee Nation.

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The Late Archaic: Shifts in Society and the Legacy of the Nebo Hill Site - Plains 10

In this episode of the Great Plains Archaeology Podcast, host Carlton Shield Chief Gover explores the Late Archaic period, a time of significant cultural and environmental change on the Great Plains. At the heart of the discussion is the Nebo Hill Site in Missouri, a key archaeological site that sheds light on the innovations and adaptations of Late Archaic peoples. Carlton examines the technological advancements, shifting subsistence strategies, and evolving social organization that defined this period.

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Wheels of Time: The Middle Archaic and the Medicine Wheels of the Great Plains - Ep 09

In this episode of the Great Plains Archaeology Podcast, host Carlton Shield Chief Gover delves into the fascinating Middle Archaic period through the lens of some of its most enigmatic features: medicine wheels and cairns. Carlton explores the Bighorn Medicine Wheel in Wyoming, the Majorville Cairn and Medicine Wheel in Alberta, and the British Block Cairn and Medicine Wheel in Saskatchewan. These remarkable structures, rich with cultural and spiritual significance, offer a glimpse into the lifeways and belief systems of the Middle Archaic peoples.

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Adapting to Change: The Early Archaic Period on the Great Plains - Ep 08

In this episode of the Great Plains Archaeology Podcast, host Carlton Shield Chief Gover examines the Early Archaic period, a transformative era in the history of the Great Plains. Marked by significant climatic shifts following the end of the Ice Age, this period saw dramatic adaptations in human lifeways. Carlton delves into how these environmental changes influenced hunting strategies, as communities shifted from targeting megafauna to a broader range of game and plant resources. The episode also explores the intensification of space modification, with evidence of advanced land-use strategies emerging during this time. Join us as we uncover how early peoples navigated the evolving landscapes of the Plains and developed innovative solutions to sustain their communities. Whether you're intrigued by climate history, early human ingenuity, or the archaeology of adaptation, this episode sheds light on a pivotal chapter in the Plains’ deep past.

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Indigenous Archaeology: Reclaiming Narratives of the Past - Ep 07

In this episode of the Great Plains Archaeology Podcast, host Carlton Shield Chief Gover dives into the field of Indigenous Archaeology, exploring its roots, principles, and growing impact on the discipline. Indigenous Archaeology is more than just a methodology; it’s a movement to reclaim and represent the histories of Indigenous communities in ways that honor their perspectives and sovereignty. Carlton unpacks how this approach emerged, shaped by Indigenous scholars, activists, and allies who advocate for a respectful, community-centered archaeology that reflects the voices and values of Native peoples. He discusses how Indigenous Archaeology reshapes research practices, challenges traditional narratives, and fosters collaborations that benefit both Indigenous communities and the field as a whole. Tune in to discover how Indigenous Archaeology offers new paths for understanding the past and why it’s essential for creating a more inclusive archaeological record. Whether you're new to the concept or eager to deepen your understanding, this episode is an enlightening exploration of how archaeology is transforming from within.

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  • For rough transcripts of this episode, go to: https://www.archpodnet.com/great-plains-archaeology/01

  • For a transcript of this episode, tap the Zencastr icon on in the upper left corner of the Podcast image.

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Presenting Indigenous Archaeology on the World Stage: Reflections from JAGFOS 2024 in Kyoto, Japan - Plains 06

In this special episode of the Great Plains Archaeology Podcast, host Carlton Shield Chief Gover shares his experiences presenting his work in Indigenous Archaeology at the 2024 Japanese-American-German Frontiers of Science Symposium cohosted by the National Academy of Sciences (U.S.), the Japan Society for the Promotion of Science (JSPS), and the Alexander von Humboldt Foundation (Germany). This prestigious gathering brings together researchers from a variety of disciplines and backgrounds, offering Carlton a unique opportunity to introduce the archaeology of the Great Plains to a global, multi-disciplinary audience. Carlton reflects on the challenges and rewards of communicating Indigenous perspectives to a broader scientific community, discussing how cross-cultural dialogue enriches our understanding of archaeology and the narratives of the past. Tune in to hear insights from his presentation, the conversations it sparked, and his takeaways from engaging with international scholars. Whether you’re interested in Indigenous Archaeology or the role of science in cross-cultural exchange, this episode provides a firsthand account of sharing Plains history and Indigenous perspectives on a world stage.

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Hell Gap: A Window into Paleoindian Life on the Great Plains - Ep 05

In this episode of the Great Plains Archaeology Podcast, host Carlton Shield Chief Gover takes listeners to one of the most significant Paleoindian sites in North America: the Hell Gap National Historic Landmark. Located in eastern Wyoming, Hell Gap has provided a treasure trove of archaeological insights into the earliest inhabitants of the Great Plains. Carlton explores the history of this iconic site, from its discovery in the 1950s to its designation as a National Historic Landmark, highlighting its importance in understanding Paleoindian culture. We’ll delve into the various Paleoindian components uncovered at Hell Gap, including artifacts from Clovis, Folsom, and other key traditions, and discuss how these finds have helped archaeologists reconstruct lifeways, tool technologies, and hunting strategies. The episode also features a history of the site’s excavations, from the groundbreaking early digs to more recent research efforts. Whether you're fascinated by ancient history or want to learn more about how sites like Hell Gap shape our understanding of the Paleoindian past, this episode offers a captivating look at one of the Great Plains' most remarkable archaeological landmarks.

Youtube: https://youtu.be/EvzAaRURSSg

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The First Peoples: Uncovering the Paleoindian Legacy on the Great Plains - Plains 04

In this episode of the Great Plains Archaeology Podcast, host Carlton Shield Chief Gover explores the fascinating Paleoindian period, focusing on the earliest known peoples to inhabit the Great Plains. These pioneering groups adapted to the Ice Age environment, hunting megafauna like mammoths and bison, and leaving behind some of the most iconic archaeological sites in North America. Carlton delves into the discovery of key Paleoindian sites, including Clovis and Folsom, which provide insights into the lifeways, tools, and migration patterns of these early hunters. This episode takes listeners on a journey through time, unraveling the mysteries of the First Peoples and the lasting legacy they've left on the Great Plains landscape. Whether you're an archaeology enthusiast or curious about the ancient history of North America, this deep dive into the Paleoindian period will captivate and inform.

Youtube: https://youtu.be/uHE45rdZ0GU

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Tracing Time on the Plains: From Paleoindian to Ceramic Periods - Plains 03

In this episode of the Great Plains Archaeology Podcast, host Carlton Shield Chief Gover provides an overview of the major cultural periods that have shaped the Great Plains' rich history. Starting with the Paleoindian period, we delve into the earliest known inhabitants, exploring their hunting practices and survival strategies in a changing landscape. We then journey through the Archaic period, marked by a shift in subsistence strategies and adaptation to diverse environments. As we move into the Woodland period, we'll discuss the introduction of new technologies and social complexities, followed by the Plains Village period, where agricultural practices and settled communities became more prominent. Carlton also introduces listeners to the concept of the Ceramic Period, which combines the Woodland and Plains Village periods, highlighting the evolution of pottery and other cultural developments that defined this era. This episode offers a brief look at the timeline of human occupation on the Great Plains, providing insights into how these periods are interconnected and how they have been interpreted through the archaeological record. Whether you're new to Plains archaeology or looking to deepen your understanding of these cultural periods, this episode offers a fascinating exploration of the region's past.

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Animals of the Great Plains - Ep 02

In this episode of the Great Plains Archaeology Podcast, host Carlton Shield Chief Gover takes you on a journey through the diverse and fascinating world of the animals that have roamed the Great Plains for thousands of years. From mighty bison herds to elusive prairie dogs, the animals of the Plains have played an essential role in the lives of Indigenous peoples, shaping their cultures, diets, and spiritual practices. We'll explore how these creatures have influenced the archaeological record, offering clues to past lifeways and helping us better understand the deep connection between humans and the natural world. This episode also highlights the significance of key species in Plains ecology and their impact on the landscape.

Youtube: https://youtu.be/llKpPcN1z20

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The Environment of the Great Plains: Shaping the Archaeological Record - Ep 01

In this episode of The Great Plains Archaeology Podcast, we delve into the unique and diverse environment of the Great Plains, exploring how its landscapes have influenced human history and shaped the archaeological record. From expansive grasslands to river valleys and rolling hills, the Great Plains have been home to a variety of ecosystems that supported the lives of Indigenous peoples for millennia.

Youtube: https://youtu.be/S9D3JZbNPbA

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Introducing the Great Plains Archaeology Podcast!

Welcome to the inaugural episode of "The Great Plains Archaeology Podcast." Join your host, Carlton Shield Chief Gover, as he sets the stage for an immersive journey through the heart of North America's Great Plains. In this introduction, discover what this podcast is all about and what you can expect in the episodes to come. He'll delve into the latest archaeological discoveries, explore past cultures, and uncover the historical insights that shape our understanding of this vast and storied region. From ancient artifacts to the echoes of Indigenous civilizations, get ready to be transported to the hidden past of the Great Plains. Whether you're an archaeology enthusiast, history buff, or simply a curious mind, this episode will whet your appetite for the fascinating stories waiting to be unearthed. Tune in and start exploring the mysteries of the Great Plains with Carlton.

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