Community Engagement

UB archaeological dig at the site of Cataract House in Niagara Falls in October 2017. Photographer: Meredith Forrest Kulwicki.

As part of a major public research university, UB Archaeological Survey makes substantial research contributions to academic knowledge while actively engaging the community in our work. 

Our projects have academic research, outreach and education components, including opportunities for public involvement and participation. Our unique approach engages the public in archaeological activities, while educating people of all ages and backgrounds about local and regional archaeology, history and the preservation of the cultural heritage of Western New York.

We have been reaching out to the local community for decades, providing accessible opportunities and information about our research methods and findings.  We offer presentations at schools, museums and libraries, and we provide experiential learning opportunities at some field sites.  

The UB Archaeological Survey has extensive laboratory and museum space.  We invite the community to visit and explore our extensive site-related collections, displays and teaching materials. 

Featured Projects

  • Cataract House
    3/19/25
    The Cataract House in Niagara Falls, New York, is of special interest because it is  documented as a station on the Underground Railroad during the Antebellum period of American history.
  • McKendry Archaeological Site
    3/19/25
    Our team leads small-scale public digs at the McKendry Site, located near Irving, NY, allowing students and volunteers of all ages to participate in responsible and respectful excavation, artifact collection, radiocarbon dating and documentation.
  • Michigan Street Baptist Church
    3/19/25
    Listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1974, the Michigan Street Baptist Church has been a hub of abolitionist and civil rights activism since its founding and plays an important role in American history. 
Are you in need of UB Archaeological Survey services?

Does your property have historical artifacts or historical significance? Does your project require work with the US Army Corps of Engineers and the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC)? Are you seeking Historical Tax Credits for a commercial project? For these projects and more, contact: Doug Perrelli at perrelli@buffalo.edu or call 716.645.2297.