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Cultural Resource Services

About Cultural Resource Services

Cultural Resource Services has identified and preserved Wisconsin’s cultural resources since 1958. We curate state-owned collections and associated documentation, and monitor construction in culturally sensitive areas. We offer these services to local, state and federal agencies—and in doing so, help support compliance with historic preservation laws and regulations statewide.

We’re proud to partner with other archaeology programs, academic institutions, agencies and local historical societies in advancing our mission throughout and beyond Wisconsin.

Two people digging and documenting in a controlled archaeology dig.
A historic investigation uncovers 32 sites

Discovering history

Our team uncovered 32 important sites—including two significant enough to earn National Register of Historic Places eligibility. While the Teeple Group and Lamberson Site ultimately required removal, our team plans to document the artifacts—and stories—of these important locations. As we investigate during the 2026 field season, our findings will join a larger body of research that preserves irreplaceable pieces of the past for generations to come.

Services Offered

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Artifacts from an archaeological site in Wisconsin.

Archaeology

We survey, excavate and analyze sites from initial identification through data recovery and lab work. 

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National Hotel, a Building.

Architectural History

We review records and evaluate historic buildings and structures for National Register of Historic Places eligibility.  

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Workers at the site of two graves discovered on Bascom Hill in front of Main Hall (now Bascom Hall). One man sprays water from a hose. The disturbed soil of the two burials can be seen near the center of the image. Madison's first cemetery was located at this site.

Burial Sites Compliance

We review, permit, document and monitor cemetery and burial sites to ensure compliance with state laws.

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Public Outreach

We partner with local historical societies and communities through site projects, classroom presentations, training and more.  

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A person holding old images while wearing protective gloves
Items & Objects

Explore Our Collections

Curious about our collections?

We offer both digital access through our website as well as opportunities across the state to experience items in person. Researchers can also access our collections for consultation and study upon request.

Explore Our Collections
A diver underwater
Archaeology & Preservation

State Historic Preservation Office

The Society serves as Wisconsin’s federally designated State Historic Preservation Office (SHPO). The SHPO maintains state records on archaeological sites, protects sites on public lands, administers property tax exemptions and connects people with research and education about Wisconsin's archaeological resources.

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We're Here to Help

Whether you need archaeology services, architectural evaluations, burial site documentation, construction monitoring or compliance help, we guide our partners through every phase of the historic preservation process.

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