Abstract
This work present the development of prehistoric archaeology in the Magellan region during the first half of the 20th century, specifically between the years 1932 and 1958, based on the contributions and research done by the archeologists Junius Bird and Joseph Emperaire in the Chilean Patagonia. Through an historical reconstruction considering testimonies and documents of that period, it is possible to confirm personal bonds with scholars and intellectual people of the region. The scientific findings and methodological contributions of both scientists are contextualized; these were crucial for the development of prehistorical archaeology in Magallanes due to the fact that they positioned this zone as a site of interest for future archaeological investigations.