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!
Upcoming Events
Wednesday, May 31 7:00pm - 8:30pm Virtual Event Looking to expand your reading list and discuss a variety of issues and topics important to Native people? If so, please join […] 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 […] 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 […]
Latest Past Events
May Virtual Book Club – “Oracles: A Novel” by Melissa Tantaquidgeon Zobel
Atlatl Workshop
The Institute for American Indian Studies
38 Curtis Road, Washington
Mothers’ Day Necklace Workshop
The Institute for American Indian Studies
38 Curtis Road, Washington
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.
