Chapter 4. Laboratory Organization, Methods, and Processes

Author(s): Michael L. Blakey, M. E. Mack, K. Shujaa, R. Watkins

Year: 2004

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Summary

This chapter describes the organization of skeletal recordation in the laboratory.

This work requires specialized personnel, task teams, and processes that convert fragile

fragments of soil-encased bone into skeletal elements that reveal accurate anatomical

structure and observable effects of physiological processes that can be assessed for

genetic, demographic, and pathologic information. That information is then coded and

entered into a computer database where all information on each individual can be tracked

and statistical data on sample groups of skeletons can be manipulated. Skeletal

recordation was completed in 1999 resulting in an estimated 250,000 observations on the

419 human remains. Photographic and radiographic documentation and sampling of

bone and dental tissue were also undertaken for future research. A collection containing

more than 55,000 photographs (mainly slides and digitized images) and over 2,000 x-ray

radiographs, and a small sample of cranial CAT scans has been assembled.

URL:http://www.africanburialground.gov/ABG_FinalReports.htm

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Keywords

Temporal Coverage

Calendar Date: 1640 to 1800

Spatial Coverage

Individual & Institutional Roles

Contact(s): General Services Administration Northeastern and Caribbean Region

Prepared By(s): National Parks Service