The Institute For

American
Indian Studies

IAIS preserves and educates through discovery and creativity the diverse traditions, vitality and knowledge of Native American Cultures.

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!

Child using atlatl in the Connecticut woodlands

Upcoming Events

Latest Past Events

Atlatl Workshop

The Institute for American Indian Studies 38 Curtis Road, Washington

Sunday, May 21 11:00pm - 1pm In-Person Event Did you know that before the bow and arrow many cultures throughout the world, including Native Americans, used atlatls to hunt? Such […]

Mothers’ Day Necklace Workshop

The Institute for American Indian Studies 38 Curtis Road, Washington

Sunday, May 13 1:00pm - 3pm In-Person Event Many Native American societies are matrilineal, meaning that they trace their family lines through the mother. This is one of the many […]

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.

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