Michael Sherfy

Dr. Michael Sherfy serves as an Adjunct Instructor of History at The Ohio State University's Newark campus, where he teaches history courses while conducting active archaeological research. His work bridges academic scholarship with public engagement through field investigations and community presentations.

Dr. Sherfy earned his PhD from the University of Illinois in 2005. His educational foundation supports his dual focus on historical research and archaeological fieldwork.

His research centers on Native American archaeology and historical commemoration practices, with particular emphasis on Midwestern sites. Dr. Sherfy investigates how cultural landscapes like the Turpin Site and Newark Earthworks reflect Indigenous histories, while critically examining contemporary approaches to historic preservation. His work demonstrates consistent commitment to making archaeological research accessible through public programming.

Analysis of his publications reveals evolving expertise from detailed historical studies (2007 Black Hawk research) toward integrated public archaeology projects (2021 Turpin Site dig). This trajectory shows increasing focus on community collaboration while maintaining scholarly rigor in interpreting historic sites.

Dr. Sherfy actively secures research funding as demonstrated by his Principal Investigator role for the Turpin Site project. His teaching incorporates field experience opportunities, allowing students to participate in ongoing archaeological investigations and public history initiatives. Current collaborations include work with Anderson Township and the Reese History Center.

His research methodology combines traditional archaeological investigation with critical historical analysis, creating pathways for community involvement in heritage preservation. Projects like the public opening of the Historic Greenspace Archaeological Dig demonstrate his innovative approach to democratizing archaeological research.