Hands-On Cuneiform! Examining 4,000-Year-Old Tablets In The UA Archive
Class | Registration opens Sunday, August 16, 2026 2:00 PM
Edgar J. Banks (1866–1945), known as an adventurer, archaeologist, and lecturer, is often cited as an inspiration for Indiana Jones. Following his excavation in Bismya (ancient Adab), Banks sold thousands of cuneiform tablets across the United States, including four acquired by the University of Arkansas. These artifacts remain preserved in the UA archives.
In this class, Spencer Allen, UA Teaching Assistant Professor specializing in the history of biblical interpretation, explores the history of Banks and the tablets, presents newly completed translations, and provides participants with the rare opportunity to handle these ancient artifacts firsthand.
Lunch will be provided and is included in the cost of the program.
Parking information in the Stadium garage will be shared with participants. Carpooling is highly encouraged.
This program will meet in person at Mullins Library, located at 365 N McIlroy Ave, Fayetteville, AR 72701. Please read your class reminder email for the exact room location.
Parking information in the Stadium garage will be shared with participants. Carpooling is highly encouraged.
Class changes occasionally happen; please watch for (and read) announcements or emails from OLLI regarding your class.
Click on the link below for a Google map shot of our destination location:
Mullins Library
Parking location: Stadium Garage, 380 N. Stadium Drive, Fayetteville, AR
Stadium Garage
Spencer Allen
Spencer L Allen is a Teaching Assistant Professor in the Department of History in Fulbright College. His primary teaching interests involve the ancient Near East, biblical Israel, and the history of biblical interpretation.