Excavations at George Washington's Office by the Northern Shenandoah Valley Chapter, Winchester, Virginia. About the ASV Members of the ASV come from all walks of life. Many of our members had little or no formal training in the science and art of archeology before they got involved with a local Chapter of the Society. Although the Society boasts a large number of professional archeologists, the majority of the Society's most active members, including a majority of the Board of Director's and the elected officers are amateur archeologists. Herein the title of archeologist is used to describe anyone who participates in archaeological survey, excavation, analysis, or discourse in order to increase their own knowledge, knowledge of archaeology in general, or for the shear love of doing archeology.
Amateur archaeologists participate in archaeological projects for a wide variety of reasons.
The term 'volunteer archaeologist' is sometimes used to describe professional archaeologists who are spending their personal time participating in projects. Anyone with an interest in archeology, history, or old things is invited to join the Society. No prior knowledge, skills, or aptitudes are required, although an enjoyment of being outdoors is recommended. The Society is a strictly volunteer organization. None of the officers, board members, or support staff get paid for the time they contribute.