THATCamp is a user-generated “unconference” on digital humanities organized and hosted by the Center for History and New Media at George Mason University, June 27–28, 2009.

What is an “unconference”?

According to Wikipedia, an unconference is “a conference where the content of the sessions is created and managed by the participants, generally day-by-day during the course of the event, rather than by one or more organizers in advance of the event.” An unconference is not a spectator event. Participants in an unconference are expected to present their work, share their knowledge, and actively collaborate with fellow participants rather than simply attend.

Who should attend?

Anyone with energy and an interest in digital humanities.

What should I propose?

That’s up to you. Sessions at THATCamp will range from software demos to training sessions to discussions of research findings to half-baked rants (but please no full-blown papers; we’re not here to read or be read to.) You should come to THATCamp with something in mind, and on the first day find a time, a place, and people to share it with. Once you’re at THATCamp, you may also find people with similar topics and interests to team up with for a joint session.

Where will THATCamp be held?

We’ll be spread out in rooms of the Research 1 building on the main Fairfax campus at George Mason University. On Day 1, enter the building and there will be signs guiding you to the registration table and opening remarks.

Where’s the schedule? When is THATCamp?

We’ll create the entire schedule on Day 1, but the important parts go as follows: Day 1 begins with registration from 8:30-9 (breakfast included), and we’ll begin promptly at 9am. Day 1 will end at 5:30pm, and we’ll resume for day 2 at with breakfast (yes, we’ll have lots of coffee) at 8:30am and sessions beginning at 9am. Day 2 will end in time for campers to catch their flights and grab lunch.

How do I get to CHNM via car

From Washington via I-66W, take exit 60 at Route 123 South, Chain Bridge Road. Follow Route 123 through the City of Fairfax, and turn left at Braddock Road. Take your first left onto Roanoke River Road. Bear right at the fork in the road onto Patriot Circle. Follow Patriot Circle around past the Aquatic Center and turn left at Sandy Creek Way into the Sandy Creek Parking Deck. The Center for History & New Media is located across the path from the parking deck on the fourth floor of the Research 1 building. Both Research 1 and the Sandy Creek Parking Deck can be found on the online campus map.

How do I get to CHNM via bus?

The Cue Bus system runs through Fairfax, and will drop you off at the north-side of campus. Follow the sidewalk from the GMU stop south, past a clock tower and continue walking south until you arrive at the Research 1 building on your left. Sadly, the Cue Bus doesn’t run early enough on Sunday for our morning sessions, so consider grabbing a ride with other campers.

How do I sign up?

Unfortunately, we only have space for 70–80 ~100 participants, so we did some vetting. As of April 1, 2009, applications for THATCamp have closed and there is no wait list. Check back here next year!

How much?

THATCamp is free to all attendees, but a $25 donation towards snacks and diet coke will be much appreciated by the organizers.

How do I sponsor THATCamp?

A limited number of sponsorships are available to corporations and non-profits. Shoot us an email at