Saenger Pottery Works: Preliminary Report: Unlocking a Town’s History through their Pottery

Summary

This investigation of historical ceramics is conducted on a collection that dates from 1886 to 1915. Saenger Pottery Works was in operation from c.a.1885 through c.a. 1915. The size, form, and function variability of the ceramics inform about production techniques used and what forms are preferred over others. The sherds previously collected are currently dated based on makers’ marks, stylistic attributes, and the period of kiln operation. However, issues with the dating method need resolution due to occupation by multiple groups and the inability to use proper dating techniques. The issues in provenience and provenance are discussed because the pottery, while attributable to the site, do not have records of excavation. Background research is a joint effort with the president of the town Historical Society. One result was the discovery of an African American cemetery, which appears on maps from 1836 until 1983. Additionally, a darker history is revealing itself with the discovery of a long-forgotten disturbing criminal with familial ties to current residents. The investigation seeks to find the historical significance Elmendorf has in the development of San Antonio and the State of Texas. Research is currently on going, and an excavation of the Saenger site is under development.

This Resource is Part of the Following Collections

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

Keywords

Spatial Coverage

Record Identifiers

Abstract Id(s): 16197