Maryland Inventory of Historic Properties (Archaeology)
About the Maryland Inventory of Historic Properties
The Maryland Inventory of Historic Properties is the state’s official record of known archaeological and architectural resources. Managed by the Maryland Historical Trust (MHT), the Maryland Inventory documents tens of thousands of sites that reflect the state’s history and cultural heritage, including data on tens of thousands of archaeological resources.
The Maryland Inventory helps MHT and its partners:
- Maintain consistent records of site locations and characteristics
- Support planning and preservation decisions at the local and state levels
- Track and protect significant heritage sites
Note: Including a property or site in the Maryland Inventory does not create legal restrictions on the use or dispensation of that property. The Maryland Inventory is a tool for planning and informational purposes and should not be used for regulatory purposes.
Archaeology in the Maryland Inventory
The archaeological component of the Maryland Inventory includes official site records from both professional archaeologists and public reports for sites located on land and underwater, including:
- Colonial plantations and early domestic sites
- Shipwrecks, piers and harbor structures
- Industrial mills, quarries and farms
- Prehistoric camps and villages
- Shell middens and isolated artifact scatters
- Submerged aircraft and other maritime sites
Maryland Inventory data is accessible via the MHT Library and online via Medusa. Because archaeological sites are fragile, MHT limits public access to detailed location data to qualified archaeologists. This helps prevent looting, vandalism and accidental damage. Restrictions are supported by the Maryland Public Information Act and the Maryland Historical Trust Act. For full access, request a user account.
Register a site in the Maryland Inventory (Archaeology)
Anyone who identifies a new archaeological site can help update the Maryland Inventory. Here’s how to register your site and receive a permanent Maryland Inventory (Archaeology) number.
1. Before you start
Contact the Archaeological Register to determine how best to proceed.
Gather the information and materials, which usually include:
- Site maps and location details (USGS quadrangle map if available)
- Sketch maps or soil profiles
- Photographs of the site or artifacts (optional but helpful)
2. Complete the required forms
In consultation with the Archaeological Registrar, download and fill out the required forms:
- Basic Data Form (all sites)
- Supplemental Forms (pick the ones that apply):
- Historic Data Form (for historic-period sites)
- Prehistoric Data Form (for prehistoric sites)
- Shipwreck Data Form (for underwater sites)
If your site only fits one category, delete the unused forms.
See detailed instructions on how to complete the required forms.
3. Submit the forms
Send your completed documents to the Archaeological Registrar:
- The preferred method of submittal is as a Microsoft Word document.
- You may attach maps and photographs or embed them in the Word file.
- For large files, send graphics separately or on a CD.
Once reviewed, MHT may assign an official Maryland Inventory number and add your data.
Report an archaeological discovery
If you find an artifact or archaeological site, please report your discovery to MHT. Archaeological sites reported by members of the public may be recorded in Medusa. For site discoveries or more detailed finds, please contact the Archaeological Registrar or simply send a map with an explanatory paragraph.