Member Meeting – Guest Speaker Dr. Hunter Claypatch

Following a brief members meeting, archaeologist Hunter Claypatch, who has curated the archeological exhibit currently on display at the Museum, will be our guest speaker on June 6, 2026, at 10:30 am in the Patagonia Public Library.

Patagonia and its surrounding areas have evidence of human occupation dating back several thousand years. While few professional archaeologists have worked in the area, the region is home to a rich and dynamic history. This history includes a gradual transition from hunter-gatherers to sedentary agriculturalists and the development of complex trade networks across southern Arizona and northern Sonora. In this talk, Dr. Claypatch synthesizes available data to reconstruct the archaeological history of Patagonia and Sonoita Creek. Much of this work has been made possible through an analysis of collections held at the Patagonia Museum and discussions with local community members. Claypatch’s presentation will also highlight ways that the local community can learn more about archaeological preservation and become involved with the wider archaeological community.

Bio: Hunter M. Claypatch received his Ph.D. from Binghamton University in 2022. He is an archaeologist who has worked extensively with precolonial artifacts on both sides of the U.S. and Mexico international border. He currently serves as president for the Arizona Archaeological Council and as a professor in the Department of Anthropology and History at Pima Community College.