STATE ARCHAEOLOGIST

NICHOLAS BELLANTONI, PhD.

DECEMBER 7 TH

Nicholas F. Bellantoni, PhD., who serves as the state archaeologist with the Connecticut State Museum of Natural History and Archaeology Center at the University of Connecticut, will speak at the weekly meeting of the Y's Men of Westport/Weston on Thursday, December 7th. The intriguing title of his talk is "Adventures of the State Archaeologist: Combining Forensics and Archaeology.” Not only will he talk about recent archaeology projects throughout the state, but will discuss his role in police investigations, forensics and burials. The meeting begins at 10AM at the Saugatuck Congregational Church, 245 Post Road East.

Nicholas Bellantoni was born in Port Chester, NY and was raised in the south end of Hartford. He received his BA from Central CT State College and his PhD from UConn in 1987. Immediately after receiving his doctorate in anthropology, he was hired as state archaeologist. He and his wife, Angela, live in Newington, and they have two grown children and three grandchildren. He served in the US Navy for four years from 1968-72.  His duties are many, but primarily include the preservation of archaeological sites in the state. His research background is the analysis of skeletal remains from eastern North America. He has been excavating in Connecticut for over 30 years.

The Office of State Archaeology was established at the CSMNH in 1987 to provide technical assistance to municipalities in the preservation of archaeological sites within their communities that might be threatened by development and vandalism. The office maintains comprehensive site files and maps, has in-state networks of supportive public, serves as a clearinghouse of information, coordinates the salvage of archaeological sites, and represents Connecticut on national issues pertaining to archaeology. The office has state mandated responsibilities for the preservation or archaeological excavation and reburial of human remains encountered during construction activities. The museum serves as the repository for all anthropological collections at the university and for artifacts found on state lands. Finally, they create public awareness and support for archaeological preservation, including the organization of CT Archaeology Awareness Week activities every year.