History of the State Archeologist
The position of State Archeologist was created as part of the legislation establishing the Arkansas Archeological Survey in 1967, and Hester A. Davis was appointed to the position.
As there was no job description in the bill, the duties and responsibilities of the position grew and changed as the Survey grew and changed, and as experience dictated. Early on, a division of labor was established between the Director of the Survey and the State Archeologist. The Director handled fiscal matters, contact with University administration and the state legislature, personnel and policy matters, and administration of the Sponsored Research Program and Computer Services Program.
The State Archeologist handled administration of the Survey Coordinating Office, Research Stations, and Registrar's Office, and served as editor of the Survey publications program.
The State Archeologist also worked closely with the Arkansas Archeological Society, directing the development of the Training Program for Amateur Archeologists, and serving as editor and treasurer for the Society. On the national scene, the State Archeologist was involved in the development and promotion of public archeology, through work on federal legislation and participation in professional societies and conferences.
From about 1972 to 1987, the State Archeologist acted as the archeological review-and-compliance person for the State Historic Preservation Officer (SHPO), reviewing federal projects and reports resulting from archeological work under contract. In 1987, with the hiring of an archeologist to handle compliance work in the SHPO office, this function was transferred to Little Rock.
In June 1999, Hester Davis retired as State Archeologist. The position will continue to grow and evolve under the second and current State Archeologist, Dr. Ann M. Early.
