As the Armory Hill Living History Association we are dedicated to the study of American life before 1840. We do this by means of personal research and experimental archaeology. There has been a lot of talk lately about experimental archaeology but it pretty much boils down to "What the heck is it anyway?"
Most probably the term came into its current usage due largely to the efforts of Mark A. Baker. Think what you will about Mark but he has probably done more to popularize our hobby than almost anyone else. Just look at his excellent "Longhunter" videos and you'll see why. He calls himself an "experimental archaeologist" and defines it as someone who uses the old ways and, through trial and error, discovers how they are supposed to work. That's what we do, too. We'll make or trade for or buy some article of early American life and try to use it. After much fiddling and fumbling we start to get the hang of it. Then we can, with reasonable assurance, say "This is probably the way the used to do it in the old days." That's experimental archaeology.
We love our hobby and spend considerable time, and money, in its pursuit. We also want to share our experiences with other like-minded individuals and groups. The fact that you're looking at our Web site shows that you're interested too. So, we'll keep experimenting and sharing what we find so all of us that enjoy this pastime may benefit. The Armory Hill LHA is also available for lectures and demonstrations for schools and non-profit institutions in Northern California. By so doing we hope to foster a closer understanding of the foundations of early American life and bring these times to life for the education and enjoyment of others.Would you favor us by signing our guest book?