The Museum of Ontario Archaeology is a non-profit research centre and resource for studies in Ontario Archaeology. The museum houses over 2.5 million artifacts for analysis and maintains a public gallery for the interpretation of the 11,000 year occupation of southwestern Ontario. Adjacent to the museum is the Lawson Provincial Heritage and Archaeological Dig Site. Identified as an area occupied around 1475 - 1500 AD by approximately 2000 Neutral Iroquoians, the excavated portion of this semi-permanent village consists of a reconstructed palisade, maze, earthworks and two longhouses. The site was strategically situated for defensive purposes and access to fresh water, plants, fish, wild game and other natural resources necessary to the traditional life ways of Ontario's early inhabitants. Located within London's city limits, beside Medway Heritage Valley, this rich ecological environment and historically significant area transports you to 15th century Ontario.

Enjoy your visit!


GENERAL TOUR

The 11,000 Year Occupation of Southwestern Ontario - museum interpreters take students on a tour of the gallery. Students explore how the changes in climate and environment affected the culture and technology of the native people. Hands on activities, analysis of artifacts and interactive discussions, enhance the experience. Weather permitting, the students will have a chance to tour the Lawson Site and visit the reconstructed village.

Adult Workshop Add-ons

The following workshops can be added to any of the above core programs, to enhance you class experience at the museum.

$1.00/person:

 

Native Plants – 30mins

This workshop aimed at adult audiences will explore the various plants available to First Nations peoples and how they were used, including medicinal and ceremonial usage. $1.00 /person

 

Tea Tasting – 30mins

This workshop aimed at adult audiences will explore various First Nations herbal teas through a tea tasting exercise.  $1.25 /person


ADDITIONAL INFORMATION

Programs are available year round. The Lawson Prehistoric Village is open from May to December (weather permitting).

Please request bookings at least two weeks before your preferred date. Tours and programs are booked on a first come, first served basis. Museum staff will try to satisfy requests -- but note that some dates fill quickly.

The Museum requires ample supervision for all programs. We suggest a minimum ratio of one adult for every 10 students. Adults helping the group will be admitted free (at a ratio of 1:10).

Programs can be booked for less than 10 people, but a minimum charge of 10 will be applied.

We reserve the right to charge a $10 fee if two days' notification of cancellation is not given. We allow cameras in the gallery, but flashes may not be used as some artifacts are light sensitive.

All prices include GST. Payment should be made at the time of your visit with cheques payable to: Museum of Ontario Archaeology

CONTACT INFORMATION

For more information or to book please call (519) 473-1360, or e-mail the Museum at museum.of.archaeology@uwo.ca