African-American In-Ground Vaults: An Investigation Into Differential Burial Practices Identified Through A Public Archaeology Initiative

Author(s): Kevin A Gidusko; Patrisha L. Meyers

Year: 2016

Summary

Historic cemeteries are some of the most threatened cultural resources in the state of Florida; of these, historic African-American cemeteries are most at risk. Subject to neglect, rapid urbanization, and the loss of community remembrance, these sites are in need of immediate preservation efforts. This paper discusses investigations into these sites through the work of the Florida Historic Cemeteries Recording Project (FLHCRP), a volunteer-driven effort overseen by the Florida Public Archaeology Network. Data collected are allowing us to investigate the pronounced predilection for surface-level vaulted interments in African-American cemeteries in many parts of Florida. This interment choice is in marked contrast to coeval White cemeteries. Our preliminary investigation into interment style focuses on the possibility of cultural continuity surrounding burial customs borne to the Americas during the era of the Transatlantic Slave Trade.

Cite this Record

African-American In-Ground Vaults: An Investigation Into Differential Burial Practices Identified Through A Public Archaeology Initiative. Kevin A Gidusko, Patrisha L. Meyers. Presented at Society for Historical Archaeology, Washington, D.C. 2016 ( tDAR id: 434252)

Spatial Coverage

min long: -129.199; min lat: 24.495 ; max long: -66.973; max lat: 49.359 ;

Individual & Institutional Roles

Contact(s): Society for Historical Archaeology

Record Identifiers

PaperId(s): 738