March 07, 2005

Conference to explore house societies

by Katharine Quaranta

CARBONDALE, Ill. -- The Center for Archaeological Investigation, in cooperation with the Division of Continuing Education at Southern Illinois University Carbondale, will present "The Durable House: Architecture, Ancestors, and Origins" March 18-19.

The conference, set for 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. both days at the University Museum, is open to anyone with an interest in archeological scholarship. Discussions will focus on the economic, ritual and political organization of the social house. Drawing together a diverse group of scholars, it will offer a timely and comparative perspective on the archaeology of the house societies.

Participants will discuss the social context of house formation and maintenance, especially with respect to relations of status, identity and property. They will also gain insights into how archeology is uniquely positioned to inform anthropological models of this concept.

Registration is $45 for professionals and $20 for students. After March 10, a $10 late fee will be charged.

For more information or to register, contact the Division of Continuing Education at 618/536-7751 or visit the web site at www.dce.siu.edu.