Analysis of the faunal remains from a 19th century Aku property in Banjul, The Gambia

Summary

During the Summer of 2014, excavations were carried out in Banjul, The Gambia, formerly known as Bathurst, at a 19th century Aku site as part of the Banjul Heritage Project. This paper focuses on the analysis and interpretation of the faunal remains from the site. The Aku ethnic group, formed from a Liberated African population in Bathurst during the colonial period, were a socially, politically, and economically prominent group in colonial Bathurst, often highlighting their Christian, English affiliations over African heritage. Results from faunal analyses indicate that this group’s socioeconomic status was not reflected in the type of meat they chose to consume. Rather, the prominence of fish displays a trend towards convenience in meat consumption. Additionally, the presence of pork remains highlights their connectivity with Christian, British traditions amidst a surrounding Islamic influence in the remainder of the country. 

This Resource is Part of the Following Collections

• Poster Submission 2016   •
• Society for Historical Archaeology 2016

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Contact(s): Society for Historical Archaeology

Record Identifiers

PaperId(s): 732