An Abundance of Data: The Opportunities and Constraints of Digital Media Utilization at Fort Snelling National Historic Landmark

Summary

Intensively recorded, researched, and utilized historic and archaeological sites present many unique opportunities and issues in their study and interpretation. One such site is Fort Snelling National Historic Landmark. The large amounts of historic map and archival data available throughout the history of Fort Snelling allows for both more complete, and more complex understandings of the site. The use of georeferenced archival maps can highlight and visualize a timeline for the progression of changes from historic events and modern development including the locations, relevant dates, and utilization periods for potential archaeological sites such as demolished buildings and former use areas. In addition, georeferencing of previous excavation maps allow for the attachment of artifact catalogs, field notes, and photos to individual excavation units and areas, showing larger patterns in archaeological distribution and composition. In contrast, a large abundance of data can also prove to be a hindrance through conflicting data sets, differing locational data, and difficult access to forms of information. This paper will examine the contributions and constraints of digital media in the identification of potential future archaeological investigations, its use in the interpretation of artifact assemblage distribution, and how that information is accessible for Fort Snelling National Historic Landmark.

This Resource is Part of the Following Collections

• Society for American Archaeology 82nd Annual Meeting, Vancouver, BC (2017)

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Record Identifiers

Abstract Id(s): 17374