Join the Center for a reception and presentation by local archaeologist, professor, and author Dr. G.Timothy Gross. Gross volunteered on his first archaeological projects as a high school student in 1968, and although he has worked outside San Diego, he has been involved in local archaeology ever since. In this talk he will reflect on the changes that have happened in the last 50 years in how archaeology has been done and by whom. He will look at what we have learned and what ideas we have discarded, and he will address the ever-changing political climate of local archaeology. A tour of the Center will be offered following the presentation. Date: Saturday, November 9, 2019 Time: 12 PM to 3 PM (Presentation at 1 PM) Location: San Diego Archaeological Center Cost: Free

Ten years ago, Thomas Holm read Scott O’Dell’s novel Island of the Blue Dolphins with his fourth-grade daughter. That experience led to him to research California’s indigenous mariners, including the “Nicoleño” of San Nicolas Island, which is the real setting of O’Dell’s book. That ten year journey, from elementary school field trip, to claims of improprieties, to the enactment of new preservation laws, will be addressed by Holm as he presents his new book entitled, Shrouded Heritage: Island of the Blue Dolphins. Holm sets out to learn the truth about California’s ancient island-dwelling People, especially the real-life woman fictionalized as Karana in Scott O’Dell’s beloved novel Island of the Blue Dolphins. That endearing soul became the last of her kind after witnessing the bloody massacre of her tribe. She then suffered 18 years of isolation on her cold and merciless island. This investigation of her life and the legacy of her People inadvertently triggers a battle among academics and Indigenous Peoples with world-wide implications. Woven together within this saga are data from church records, court papers, ship logs, and dozens of other historic and “scientific” documents. Likewise, and with equal reverence, included are oral accounts, traditional songs, and religious beliefs of tribal elders. This uniquely inclusive approach provides the source of new information about the real “Island of the Blue Dolphins” and its remarkable heritage. Also included in Holm’s presentation will be exclusive photos of unique artifacts, archeological excavations and extraordinary scenery from San Nicolas Island. About the Author Thomas Holm is an author, archaeological researcher, environmental activist, and long-distance paddler.  His research has focused on the ancient maritime cultures of the Southern California Bight, including those of the Channel Islands.  He teaches Marine Archaeology and Preservation at California State University, San Marcos and has made numerous solo passages on a stand up paddleboard from the mainland to the Channel Islands to research early oceanic trade routes. Signed copies of Holm’s book will be available for purchase and proceeds will help establish the M/V Conception Memorial Garden on Santa Cruz Island to honor 34 people recently killed during a boat fire. Date: Saturday, February 8, 2020 Time: 11 AM Location: San Diego Archaeological Center Cost: $2 (museum admission included; pay at door); Members Free

SDAC Members, join us for an open house, behind-the-scenes tour, and reception at the Imperial Valley Desert Museum. Members are invited to go behind the scenes with IVDM Staff to learn about their exhibits, curation and collection spaces encompassing 10 million years of regional and local history! Following morning tours, SDAC Members are welcome to join IVDM Executive Director Kristin O'Lear and SDAC Executive Director Stephanie Sandoval for wine and hors d'oeurves. Under IVDM's awning overlooking the beautiful Yuha Desert, they will discuss their organizations' mission, current work, and future projects! Please note: This event is open to current SDAC members only. If your membership has lapsed, you will be asked to renew in order to attend the event. Date: Saturday, October 14, 2023 Times: Museum Open House - 10 AM to 2 PM Behind-the-Scenes Tour - 10:30 AM & 11:30 AM Reception with Museum Directors - 12:30 PM Location: Imperial Valley Desert Museum 11 Frontage Road, Ocotillo, CA 92259 Cost: Free About the Imperial Valley Desert Museum The Imperial Valley Desert Museum is a new facility in the heart of the Yuha Desert housing Indigenous and historic artifacts found within the Imperial Valley and surrounding region. Opening a new museum in the twenty-first century, we do not want to be seen as an exhibit within four walls, but to engage and interact outside of the limitations of the "box" – both metaphorically and physically.