Imagine Oregon more than 12,000 years ago. The coastline stretched miles farther
west, vast lakes filled today’s high desert, and megafauna like mammoths, giant ground
sloths, and camels still roamed the land. People were raising families, sewing clothing with bone needles and thread, harvesting plants, caring for one another, and adapting to a rapidly changing world.

How do archaeologists uncover stories as old as the Ice Age? Join archaeologist Dr. Katelyn McDonough for a behind-the-scenes look at how researchers piece together the past using clues like stone tools, pollen, campfires, animal bones, microscopic plant remains, proteins preserved on tools, and even ancient poop. Hear some of archaeology’s biggest misconceptions and explore how discoveries at every scale—from molecules under a microscope to entire ancient landscapes—are transforming our understanding of the past.

This talk also explores what archaeology looks like today. Discover how archaeologists
collaborate with Tribal Nations, geologists, paleoecologists, and many other specialists
to better understand the past while respecting Indigenous histories and knowledge.

• Why has central Oregon important for studying the Ice Age?
• How can everyone help protect cultural heritage?
• What do you do if you ever find an artifact?

Dr. Katelyn McDonough is an Assistant Professor of Anthropology, Curator of Great
Basin Archaeology, and Affiliated Faculty in Native American and Indigenous Studies at
the University of Oregon. She is passionate about teaching, food (past and present),
exploring the microscopic world, and making archaeology more accessible for
everyone.