On Florida’s gulf coast, where the trails that hosted the footsteps of the area’s first inhabitants weave beneath the shade of the mangroves, the wind rocks in oak hammocks and time is still set by the sun, a 3,700-acre sanctuary awaits. This is Weedon Island Preserve—gateway to the past and keeper of ancient cultures.
Weedon Island is home to an intricate ecosystem and centuries of human history. This interdependent duo of habitat and society inspired the creation of AWIARE—The Alliance for Weedon Island Archaeological Research and Education.
The group is dedicated to scientific exploration and research that can illuminate the impact of environment on human life. Through ongoing excavations, more and more about the first Weedon Islanders are revealed—stories that should be included in the public history of our gulf coast region.Weedon Island’s hallmark pottery—among the most exquisite collections in the southeastern United States—is under continuing study, as the messages and patterns imprinted in the fine clays still remain a mystery.
A Strategic Plan for the Alliance for Weedon Island Archaeological Research and Education, Inc. (AWIARE)
June 2013
Vision Statement
AWIARE aspires to a world class reputation in sponsoring and facilitating significant archaeological research on the Weedon Island Preserve (WIP) by providing opportunities for scholars and students to pursue sustained scientific investigations of past human occupation of the Preserve. AWIARE will take the lead role in producing and disseminating public educational programming based on the research results and will become an influential and recognized partner in local governmental and private corporate historical preservation initiatives.
Mission Statement
AWIARE exists to promote and facilitate archaeological research, scientific exploration, and public education focusing on the Weedon Island Preserve and adjacent Gulf Coast.
Values
AWIARE embraces the values of responsible scientific archaeological research and the public benefits of archaeology.
Goals
AWIARE has set goals in three areas: research, education, and operations.
• Research. AWIARE will develop, promote, and publicize research opportunities at the AWIARE Research Station on the WIP, will write and implement an archaeological research design to guide future projects, and will compile and publish results from previous studies and reports.
• Education. AWIARE will develop active public programs for children and adults in which they engage in archaeological research on the WIP. Further public awareness will be promoted through archaeo-ecotours, instructional workshops, web-based resources and materials, and traveling exhibits.
• Operations. AWIARE will broaden its base of financial support through increased membership and corporate involvement.