The Archaeological Institute of America (AIA) is North America’s oldest and largest organization devoted to the world of archaeology. The Institute is a nonprofit group founded in 1879 and chartered by the United States Congress in 1906. Today, the AIA has nearly 210,000 Members and more than 100 Local Societies in the United States, Canada, and overseas. Our members include professional archaeologists, corresponding members, students, and enthusiasts, all united by a shared passion for archaeology and its role in furthering human knowledge.

The Riverside and Inland Empire Society was formed in 2012 and received its charter from the AIA in 2017.  Among other events, we host an International Archaeology Day fair every October, co-sponsor the Archaeology Weekend at La Sierra University in November, hold a colloquium during Riverside Dickens Festival in February, and host an AIA national speaker in the Spring.  Our Society works with scholars and students in local universities, professional archaeologists, archaeology enthusiasts, and the general public to provide quality and fun activities and events.