Utah Archaeology Podcast

The Utah Archaeology Podcast welcomes its new host, Chris Merritt! Chris is the State Historic Preservation Officer for Utah and an archaeologist by training. In this season's inaugural episode, Chris sits down with archaeologist Elizabeth Hora to unpack the enduring mystery and vibrant legacy of Utah’s Fremont culture. Together, they explore the realities behind the Fremont name, the science of recreating ancient ochre pigments, and what prehistoric rock writing reveals about territorial life in the Uinta Basin.

Exploring books as physical artifacts, this episode features Lyuba Basin, Rare Books Librarian at the University of Utah’s J. Willard Marriott Library, as she uncovers the history behind the overland trail guides that shaped early Utah. The conversation delves into the delicate science of preservation, offering practical advice for anyone looking to safeguard their own family treasures.

How did an old dumbbell buried under Alta Ski Resort lead us to Utah’s combat sports history? Join us as we dive into the state's fight legacy, spanning early mining-camp brawls, Jack Dempsey’s formative bouts, and today's booming MMA scene.
Special guests include Javier Jones (Coach, Ultimate Combat Training Center) and Scott Bowler (Director, Pete Suazo Athletic Commission).

This episode features James Cawley, Creative Director of the Northwestern Band of the Shoshone Nation. We explore his work in historical storytelling and the vital role digital platforms play in preserving and sharing indigenous heritage today.

In this episode of the Utah Archaeology Podcast, we’re peeling back the layers of the Beehive State’s inked past. We sit down with CJ Fishburn (artist, owner of Look Look Tattoo, and curator of a local tattoo museum) to trace Utah’s evolution from an underground subculture to a thriving cultural legacy. From the hidden history of the local scene to the deep symbolism of American Traditional and Japanese motifs, discover how skin became a canvas for Utah’s story.

During last year’s historic federal shutdown, UCSS volunteers stepped up to defend Utah’s most vulnerable cultural sites. Join Utah Public Archaeology and the Director of Communications for the Utah Office of Tourism to hear the gripping "boots on the ground" story of how this rapid response protected our heritage, fueled the local economy, and kept recreation alive.

What do climbers and archaeology have in common? Listen to the newest episode of Utah’s Public Archaeology Podcast to find out how Utah’s climbing community is protecting our past.

Utah’s Public Archaeology Program invites you on a deep dive into the Salt Lake City Tabernacle Organ with  Emily Utt, Historic Sites Curator for The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints, and Joseph Nielson, Curator of Organs at Temple Square. Discover its fascinating pioneer past and the complex project to restore its original sound, giving you a powerful, unparalleled acoustic experience this holiday season.

When rock imagery is defaced by modern vandalism, what can be done? Join us as archaeological conservator Claire Dean discusses the recent damages in American Fork Canyon and breaks down the complex science of restoring our vital cultural heritage sites.

Did you know that cultural resource management and fire management often go hand-in-hand? Learn about this unique field and its importance to protecting Utah's cultural sites with our guests, BLM Branch Chief for Outdoor and Heritage Resources Nate Thomas and BLM State Fire Management Officer Chris Delaney!