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Maryland Historical Trust

Scout Programs

An adult and two children examine a soil color chart at an outdoor excavation site.

Calling all scouts! The Maryland Historical Trust (MHT) hosts an annual Scouts BSA Archaeology Merit Badge Workshop where Scouts can earn a merit badge through hands-on activities and real archaeological fieldwork. 

Archaeology Merit Badge Workshop 

MHT's Scouts BSA Archaeology Merit Badge Workshop typically spans two weekends in spring, with one weekend focused on classroom learning and one on fieldwork. Scouts learn archaeological methods, journey through Maryland’s past and work directly with MHT archaeologists. 

Participants must participate in both days and complete the prerequisites to complete the Scouts BSA merit badge. 

Merit badge activities 

During the workshop, Scouts: 

  • Explore archaeological methods and Maryland history in a classroom setting
  • Try ancient technologies like atlatl throwing
  • Work with real artifacts alongside MHT archaeologists in the state lab
  • Spend a day excavating at an active archaeological site 

You may be interested if you 

  • Are a Scouts BSA member aged 11 to 17
  • Would like to register individually or as part of a troop
  • Have curiosity and a willingness to get your hands dirty — no prior archaeology experience needed  

Remember, space is limited and spots fill quickly. 

Sign up for the Scouts BSA Archaeology Merit Badge interest list to be notified of future workshops.

Scouts programs at Jefferson Patterson Park & Museum 

Jefferson Patterson Park & Museum also offers Scouts programs that explore archaeology, natural history, and conservation. Participants can earn an Archaeology Merit Badge or Indian Lore Merit Badge. 

Learn about Scouts programs at Jefferson Patterson Park & Museum.