Pre-Columbian Society of Washington DC

An educational organization dedicated to furthering knowledge and understanding of the peoples of the Americas before the time of Columbus.

The Pre-Columbian Society of Washington, D.C. (PCSWDC), is an educational organization dedicated to furthering knowledge and understanding of the peoples of the Americas before the time of Columbus. Founded in 1993, the Society provides a forum for the exchange of information regarding these pre-Columbian cultures between academic professionals and interested members of the public.

MEMBERSHIP BENEFITS

Monthly Illustrated Lectures

The Pre-Columbian Society hosts hour-long, illustrated lectures twelve times a year, typically on the first Friday of each month. Currently, all meetings are held virtually via Zoom, making it easy for members to participate from anywhere.

The Monthly Newsletter

Each month, members receive The Smoking Mirror, the Society’s digital newsletter filled with information for enthusiasts of ancient New World cultures. The newsletter includes links to Society talks, announcements of upcoming lectures and Society-sponsored activities, news of recent archaeological discoveries, book reviews, listings of Pre-Columbian activities, and more.

Special Tours and Exhibitions

The Society partners with local museums, embassies, and cultural institutions to offer limited-access, members-only tours and activities.

Glyph Group

The Society’s Special Interest Groups (SIGs) allow members join smaller communities within the organization to explore specific topics.The Glyph Group, one such SIG, meets monthly online to study ancient Mesoamerican writing systems. Open to all active Society members, this group meets on Zoom, making it accessible to members across the continent and beyond.

Book Club

Another Society SIG, Book Club meets three to four times annually for informal discussions about selected titles, ranging from classic volumes to the latest publications. All Society members are warmly invited to participate.

Discounts on Annual Symposium and Other Events

Members enjoy early registration and discounted rates for the Society’s annual symposium, as well as other special programs, including events hosted by the Smithsonian and other Pre-Columbian organizations.

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