In Remembrance: Archaeology and Death

(Hardback)

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In recent years, federal and state governments have recognized their responsibility for the protection of unmarked ancient burial grounds that may be threatened by modern land use activities and natural disasters. The editors have compiled case studies that reflect effective answers to removal, analysis, and reburial of human remains by archaeologists. Each study provides fascinating research from the excavation of historic cemeteries, which has added considerable knowledge to our understanding of factors relating to health, disease, and trauma, and the social histories of the diverse human communities occupying North America during the last three centuries. The volume also represents an important resource guide for archaeologists, historians, and other researchers concerning the sensitive treatment of the nation's historic burying grounds and cemeteries exposed by 20th century changes to the landscape. The Introduction highlights recent examples of the way osteological analysis of burials contributes to our knowledge of past histories. Part I examines several socially disenfranchised groups that are under-represented in historic records. These analyses demonstrate how archaeological and anthropological research can contribute to a better understanding of cultural conditions and life ways of important social groups. Part II consists of articles that illustrate where past and recent traumas and desecration have affected human burials. Part III represents the only technical section, providing a resource guide on professional standards in conducting documentary research as well as fieldwork in the location and excavation of historic burials.

Reviews

This book provides an interesting, balanced, and useful introduction to recent issues and studies in historical bioarcheology. Aimed at both archeologists and the general public, In Remembrance presents professional standards in field and lab analysis in an unobtrusive and yet cogent manner. Each chapter is clearly written with a minimum of jargon, in a style that affords the maximum benefit to laymen and professionals alike. Indeed, the clarity of writing in this book should serve as a model for future researchers attempting to reach multiple audiences.-Bulletin of the Texas Archeological Society
This collection of essays is a positive contribution to the growing discussion in anthropology of biohistory of recent humans.-American Journal of Physical Anthropology
"This collection of essays is a positive contribution to the growing discussion in anthropology of biohistory of recent humans."-American Journal of Physical Anthropology
"This book provides an interesting, balanced, and useful introduction to recent issues and studies in historical bioarcheology. Aimed at both archeologists and the general public, In Remembrance presents professional standards in field and lab analysis in an unobtrusive and yet cogent manner. Each chapter is clearly written with a minimum of jargon, in a style that affords the maximum benefit to laymen and professionals alike. Indeed, the clarity of writing in this book should serve as a model for future researchers attempting to reach multiple audiences."-Bulletin of the Texas Archeological Society

Author Bio

DAVID A. POIRIER is Staff Archaeologist with the Connecticut Historical Commission, where he is also Environmental Review Coordinator for the State Historic Preservation Office. NICHOLAS F. BELLANTONI serves as the Connecticut State Archaeologist with the Connecticut State Museum of Natural History at the University of Connecticut.