The Institute For
American
Indian Studies
IAIS preserves and educates through discovery and creativity the diverse traditions, vitality and knowledge of Native American Cultures.
A Brief History Of Our Museum
Located in Washington, Connecticut, the Institute for American Indian Studies (IAIS)—formerly the American Indian Archaeological Institute (AIAI)—was incorporated in 1975 as an outgrowth of local efforts to recover New England’s then-largely-unknown indigenous history.
Today, IAIS continues to be a 501(c)3 museum and research center dedicated to providing unique, informative and engaging experiences for our members and visitors alike. It is our members who keep us moving forward and striving to provide the best events, workshops and activities possible.
Popular Programs
See a few of our popular program offerings below for how we can best meet the needs and interests for your group either at our facility or yours.
Virtual Learning
Our virtual learning programs invite students on a journey of 12,000 years of local indigenous history! Listen to native voices, take a trip into our museum’s vault and join us in some experimental Archaeology from the comforts of home!
Summer Camp
Create, Explore, Engage and Learn! Our camp focuses on the lifeways and lessons of Native Peoples through projects, crafts and outdoor skills.
Events and Workshops
Celebrate Indigenous cultures through immersive experiences that range from AtlAtl making workshops to a traditional dance circle during our Green Corn Festival.
Wigwam Escape
Challenge the ordinary museum experience with this multi-award winning escape room!
Upcoming Events
Sunday, August 15th, 12:00 - 4:00pm In-Person, Outdoor Event, Rain or Shine Location: River Walk Pavilion, 11A School Street Washington, CT For thousands of years, corn has been an integral […] Thursday, September 9, 7:00 pm –. Presented by Dr. Lucianne Lavin, Director of Research and Collections, Institute of American Indian Studies, Washington CT. She is author of Connecticut’s Indigenous People. What Archaeology, […] Thursday, October 7, 2021, 7:00 pm. Connecticut’s Paleo-Indian Sites. This final webinar will feature Dr. Zachary (Zac) Singer, Research Archeologist, Maryland Historical Trust and Dr. David Leslie, Archeological and Historical Services, […]
16th Annual Green Corn Festival
River Walk Pavilion, 11A School Street Washington, CT
11A School Street, washington
Connecticut Native American Communities Past and Present – Unearthing History: 2021 Virtual History Series
Connecticut’s Paleo-Indian Sites – Unearthing History: 2021 Virtual History Series
Support Our Mission
The Institute of American Studies strives to educate everyone who walks through the doors by providing engaging exhibits, interactive and informative programs, and a space for reflection and learning.
We greatly appreciate your support and, with your help, hope to continue educating for years to come.
