Digging Into Missing USC History

Beneath the University of South Carolina's iconic Horseshoe, a remarkable discovery is bringing forgotten stories back to light. Over the past three years, archaeologists and students have uncovered 19th-century artifacts--from domino pieces and ceramic sherds to buttons, toothbrushes, and children's toys--that offer rare insight into the daily lives of the people who built and sustained the early campus. Led by anthropology professor Kelly Goldberg, the excavation is doing more than unearthing history--it's giving voice to those, including enslaved workers, whose stories were never recorded.

People Who Measure: Biological Research Through an Anthropological Lens

University of South Carolina anthropologist Dr. Magdalena Stawkowski documents scientific research and daily life at Kazakhstan's former Soviet nuclear testing site, revealing the human and environmental impacts of radiation through a unique anthropological perspective.

Jennifer Reynolds Publishes New Article in Journal of Sociolinguistics

Jennifer Reynolds, anthropology, linguistics, linguistic anthropology, sociolinguistics, Guatemala, Mayan communities, multilingual education, bilingual education, parental involvement, language and literacy, social justice, Journal of Sociolinguistics

Dr. Carlina Maria de la Cova publishes in New Open-Access Volume on Bioarchaeology and Social Justice

Professor Carlina de la Cova of the University of South Carolina contributes to a new open-access Springer volume on bioarchaeology, activism and social justice, exploring health inequities, structural violence and global research impact. McCausland College of Arts and Sciences

Dr. Magdalena Stawkowski Publishes New Article and Receives Two Research Grants

Dr. Magdalena Stawkowski of the McCausland College of Arts and Sciences publishes new research on radiation risk and secures major grants supporting nuclear testing studies in Kazakhstan and interdisciplinary anthropology work.

Celebrating 50 Years of Excellence in Anthropology

The Department of Anthropology celebrates 50 years with a special lecture by Dr. Thomas Leatherman, highlighting decades of research, discovery and community engagement that shaped anthropology at the University of South Carolina.

Life Amid Fallout: Why Kazakh Villagers Remain on a Former Nuclear Test Site

For decades, nuclear bombs shook the soil of eastern Kazakhstan, leaving behind invisible dangers that linger to this day. Yet in the shadow of radioactive craters and contaminated rivers, villagers continue to herd sheep, farm hay, and raise families -- determined to stay rooted in a homeland transformed by fallout.

The University of South Carolina is proud to recognize two distinguished faculty members from the Department of Anthropology for their exceptional service.

Join us in congratulating Dr. Jennifer Reynolds and Dr. Kimberly Simmons on 20 years of outstanding service at the University of South Carolina.

USC students lead energy-saving initiative for Columbia households

Two Arts and Sciences students are powering up their community by creating a new energy-saving program that will benefit low-income households.

Carlina de la Cova is featured in a fascinating podcast that explores the enduring influence of Sherlock Holmes on modern crime-solving techniques.

The podcast offers a captivating glimpse into the world of forensic anthropology and the enduring legacy of Sherlock Holmes. Dr. de la Cova discusses how the fictional detective's keen observational skills, deductive reasoning, and meticulous attention to detail continue to inspire real-life investigators.

Dr. Kelly Goldberg receives the Michael J. Mungo Undergraduate Teaching Award

The department is honored to announce that Dr. Kelly Goldberg is the recipient of the university’s Michael J. Mungo Undergraduate Teaching Award.

Volunteer Archaeology Lab

Join us for Volunteer Archaeology Lab! Wednesday, October 23rd from 5:00 - 7:00 in Hamilton 134. You will learn from USC anthropology students as you help wash and sort artifacts recovered from Sesquicentennial State Park.

Continental Divide: Wildlife, People, and the Border Wall

Please join us to view this stunning collection of photographs taken during the month-long expedition across the 2000-mile United States-Mexico border.

Celebrate Archaeology Month: Uncover South Carolina's African American Heritage!

Volunteer Archaeology Lab

Join us for a hands-on archaeology experience! Tuesday, October 8th from 4:30 - 6:30 pm in Hamilton room 134.

USC Students Unearth Local History on the Horseshoe

WIS-TV reported on the summer archaeological field school that is taking place right here on the historic Horseshoe. Students are able to dig excavation units, unearth artifacts, and learn how to use a number of tools and technologies such as mapping and metal detecting. This fascinating opportunity offers a glimpse into the lives of those who came before us on the USC campus. Check out the story!

McKissick Museum Exhibit

The McKissick Museum will continue to showcase an exhibit of artifacts that were unearthed during this summer's archaeological field school right on the historic Horseshoe.

Public Archaeology Day

Please join us Wednesday, June 12th from 9:00 AM - 12:00 PM. We will be on the Horseshoe, in front of the McKissick Museum. USC community and the general public are welcome. Drop-in anytime during the event window and experience the world of archaeology.

Dr. Jennifer Dickinson

Linguistic Anthropologist, Jennifer Dickson, will give a talk titled, 'We Work Emo: Representing Russians Through Script and Code in Ukrainian Wartime," co-sponsored event with the Linguistics Program. This event will be Wednesday, April 24th at 3:30 pm in Gambrell Hall room 429. Event Flyer [pdf]

Masters Cohort Event

An inspiring discussion with USC alumni about how their Master's in Anthropology has shaped their careers and achievements.

McKissick Museum Exhibit

Join us for a reception showcasing the artifacts found during the spring 2024 archaeological dig on the Historic Horseshoe.

Artifact Washing

Volunteers are invited to participate in a working archaeology lab. An Honors College archeology class will teach participants how to wash and sort artifacts recovered from the USC Horseshoe. Participants

African Gods & Knowledge Event

Special guest Araba Awodiran Agboola will discuss the Yoruba Gods (Orisa) with archeologist Dr. Terrance Weik.

The Gendered Contours of North Korean Migration Lecture

Discover the intricate dynamics of North Korean migration in "The Gendered Contours of North Korean Migration: Violence and Belonging in a House Divided." Join us on Thursday, April 4, at 3:00 pm in Gambrell 412 as we delve into the complexities of violence and belonging within this divided landscape. Don't miss this enlightening discussion.

What ancient farmers can really teach us about adapting to climate change - and how political power influences success or failure

Recent discoveries show how people in the past dealt with climate change and highlight success stories of how farming practices assisted civilizations.