INDIANA — In conjunction with the nation’s upcoming 250th anniversary celebrations, the Indiana Division of Historic Preservation & Archaeology (DHPA) has officially released the commemorative poster for Indiana Archaeology Month 2026.
This year’s edition joins the broader initiative led by the Indiana Semiquincentennial Commission, which marks 250 years since the signing of the Declaration of Independence. Rather than focusing solely on the Revolutionary War era, the 2026 commemoration aims to explore the full breadth of Indiana’s history and its role in the American experience, from pre-colonial times to the present day.
The 2026 poster shines a spotlight on Vincennes, highlighting its rich, multicultural heritage as a vital frontier capital.
Founded in 1732 within French territory, Vincennes holds the distinction of being Indiana’s oldest continuously inhabited European-established community. Long before European settlement, the region was inhabited by Native American tribes for thousands of years. Over the centuries, control of the strategically located settlement transitioned from Indigenous nations to France, then to Great Britain, and ultimately to the United States. Vincennes later served as the capital of the Indiana Territory from 1800 to 1813.
How to Get a Free Poster
The DHPA is offering free copies of the 2026 Indiana Archaeology Month poster to the public under the following guidelines:
- In-Person Pickups: Starting Sept. 1, posters can be picked up at the Department of Natural Resources (DNR) Central Office lobby, located in the Indiana Government Center South complex in Indianapolis. Pickups are available Monday through Friday, from 8:30 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.
- By Mail: Members of the public can request to have up to five posters mailed to them by emailing
dhpaconnect@dnr.IN.gov. - At Events: DHPA staff will also distribute copies directly during various public Archaeology Month events throughout the state.
To learn more about the poster’s historical imagery, discover upcoming Archaeology Month events, or explore educational resources, visit on.IN.gov/archaeologymonth.
