Locate: Archaeology Site Location Programs

Dates for our next Metal Detecting Expedition have not yet been set.

Learn how we use metal detecting and other survey methods to discover new archaeology sites. No prior experience is necessary, you just need a interest in learning our process.

2023 Location Programs

In Location programs, participants use the most current techniques to locate possible sites and artifacts on the property. No previous experience is necessary to participate. Our programs are designed to introduce people to the archaeological research process. Participants will also learn about the history of this area through exclusive lectures and tours not offered to typical Montpelier visitors. The marriage of the metal detecting and the other archaeological and historical information gathered about the location will give participants, as well as future visitors, a deeper understanding of what life was truly like on the plantation.

Requirements

Participants in our expeditions come from a wide variety of backgrounds and a wide range of ages — from 12 to over 80! Children 12-15 are welcome to participate with a registered parent or guardian and these programs are a wonderful opportunity to create a memorable parent-child experience. Participants aged between 16 and 18 years may participate without a guardian present.

Click on any of the available programs below to learn more and register:

Need more time to save up?

Hold your place on one of our programs with a deposit! The deposit guarantees you a spot on the program and is non-refundable.

GIVE TO MONTPELIER

As the lifelong home of James Madison, Father of the Constitution and Architect of the Bill of Rights, Montpelier's mission is to communicate Madison's role in creating our modern, democratic government.