The book includes six chapters that cover Virginia history from initial settlement through the 20th century plus one that deals with the important role of underwater archaeology. Written by prominent archaeologists with research experience in their respective topic areas, the chapters consider important issues of Virginia history and consider how the discipline of historic archaeology has addressed them and needs to address them . Changes in research strategy over time are discussed , and recommendations are made concerning the need to recognize the diverse and often differing roles and impacts that characterized the different regions of Virginia over the course of its historic past. Significant issues in Virginia history needing greater study are identified.

A directory of inmates of the Idaho State Penitentiary, Boise, Idaho, from 1864 to 1947, and a catalog of their files transferred by the Idaho Department of Corrrection to the Idaho State Historical Society's Public Archives and Research Library in 1995.