The Canadian Archaeological Association has established an award to recognize exemplary contributions to Canadian archaeology by an avocational archaeologist.

This award was originally established through the generous support of the Pendergast family in 2000 to honour the memory of a dedicated Canadian avocational archaeologist, the late James F. Pendergast (1921–2000). Although the Pendergast family has had to withdraw their financial support, the CAA is still committed to the continuation of this award program.

Click here to learn more about James F. Pendergast.

Guidelines:

This award shall be made to an individual or organization who meets one or more of the following criteria: 

• conducted original research;
• published;
• delivered papers at conferences;
• been involved and supportive of National; Provincial and/or Territorial Archaeological societies;
• actively trained other avocational archaeologists;
• positively interacted with professional archaeologists; and
• embodies all the Principles of the CAA. 

Membership in CAA not required in order to receive this Award.

Nomination:

• A member of the CAA may nominate an avocational archaeologist or organization for the Pendergast award.
• The statement of nomination must include reasons for nomination based on above guidelines.
• Nomination not to exceed five pages.
• The nomination will be evaluated by the award committee.
• One award will be made in a year.
• The committee reserves the right to not make an award.

Deadline for Nominations: April 15 of each year

The award will be announced at the CAA Annual General Meeting. The commemorative award will be presented at a mutually convenient location for the recipient and the CAA executive.

The award will also include one year's membership in the CAA.

Nominations should be sent to:

Bjorn Simonsen
Victoria, BC  V8S 5J3
bjorno@shaw.ca