Abstract

In the summer of 2004 partnerships between the Doukhobor and Saskatchewan archaeological communities created, "The Doukhobor Pit-house Public Archaeology Project", featuring the participation of Doukhobor descendants in the excavation of two Doukhobor sites. Using qualitative data including questionnaires, daily journals and interviews, the project was evaluated to determine the impact the archaeological experience had upon the changing Doukhobor community. The results of the evaluation demonstrated the successes, failures and benefits of the project for the community. However themes indicating pathways to success are applicable not only to the Doukhobor community but also to future public and descendant archaeology projects. These themes provide a deeper understanding of how archaeology can provide Canadian communities with a voice in the creation, maintenance and celebration of their past.