Tennessee Division of Archaeology

The Tennessee Division of Archaeology (TDOA) is dedicated to the documentation and preservation of Tennessee's historic and prehistoric archaeological resources. The Division’s responsibilities include maintaining the official State Archaeological Site File and site information archive, working with other State agencies to protect and manage archaeological sites on State lands, surveying the state to identify and record archaeological sites, archaeological site protection and preservation, and conducting archaeological research.

Division of Archaeolpogy staff provide archaeological assistance to state and local agencies, law enforcement, municipalities, the development community, universities and colleges, and the general public. Archaeological investigations carried out on State lands require a permit issued by the TDOA, while the Deputy State Historic Preservation Officer works with the Tennessee State Historic Preservation Office (SHPO) to review federally funded, licensed, or permitted projects and assess their potential to affect archaeological sites. Additional information regarding TDOA services and information about archaeology in Tennessee can be accessed through the links on this page.

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