On this episode of "Columbia Conversations" - a podcast for the Washington State Historical Society which was a precursor to the independent radio program "Cascade of History" -Feliks Banel speaks with amateur mountaineer Bob Mead about an archaeological artifact Mr. Mead discovered at Mt. Rainier National Park 40 years ago. We learn what Mr. Mead should have done when he first found it, and what you should do if you find yourself in a similar situation. We also talk to Pacific Lutheran University Professor Bradford Andrews about what this and other artifacts can tell us about the pre-history of the place now known as Washington.

For information about what to do if you find an archaeological artifact:

Washington State Department of Archaeology and Historic Preservation

https://dahp.wa.gov/

If you have an artifact that belongs in a proper repository:

Burke Museum of Natural History and Culture

http://www.burkemuseum.org/research-and-collections/culture/services-and-policies/artifact-identification

Founding producer and host is Feliks Banel.