Anthropology and Archaeology
W.B. Hinsdale at work with a map of Michigan in the background. W.B. Hinsdale Papers, Box 2A - Personal - Photographs
Hinsdale, W. B. (Wilbert B.), 1851-1944
- 1893-1942 (bulk 1922
- 4.25 linear ft. and 1 outsize
Often termed the "father of Michigan archaeology," Wilbert B. Hinsdale (1851-1944) developed and cared for the collections of the Great Lakes Division of the Museum of Anthropology at the University of Michigan from 1922 to 1944, after retiring from his position as the dean of the Homeopathic Medical College at the university. Hinsdale was responsible for the first systematic attempts to identify, organize, and record the prehistory of the state of Michigan, and established strong connections between professional and amateur Michigan archaeologists.
Hinsdale's papers contain correspondence, topical files related to archaeological subjects, site files for archaeological sites throughout Michigan, and personal scrapbooks, diaries, and photographs.