Preserving the Past: Managing Prehistoric and Historic Canoes

Summary

Cultural resource managers often encounter historic and prehistoric wooden canoes during their archaeological field investigations or inventory process. There is considerable variation in ways that state entities manage these vessels. Different techniques are used, including but not limited to, in situ preservation, excavation, conservation, and museum exhibition. The current study examined and compared various options and techniques employed in the management of wooden canoes, mainly focusing on case studies in the southeastern United States. The pertinent laws specifically concerning canoes that are Native American-built were considered where applicable. Choice of methods used to manage and preserve in several different canoe projects was explored, and the technology used by various teams to investigate these important cultural objects was examined. Along with management considerations, the ethnographic and historical context of these culturally significant canoes was investigated. Recommendations were made which may lead to better outcomes in future canoe management projects.  

This Resource is Part of the Following Collections

• It’s All in the Details: Examples of How Focused Study Can Help Tell a Story   •
• Society for Historical Archaeology 2015

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Contact(s): Society for Historical Archaeology

Record Identifiers

PaperId(s): 213