Inexpensive X-rays, Invaluable Information: A Case Study from Two Data Recoveries.

Summary

In the spring and fall of 2012 Dovetail Cultural Resource Group conducted data recoveries on two historic sites associated with the Route 301 project in Delaware. Both sites had soil conditions resulting in heavily corroded metals, which were found in abundance. X-radiography was needed to identify indeterminate artifacts and prioritize conservation needs. The resulting x-rays allowed for accurate catalogs, thereby aiding in site interpretation and resulting in a better understanding of the sites. Since x-ray is very affordable, why aren’t more archaeologists using this technology for identification as well as an aid in sampling collections?  This paper highlights the use and importance of x-ray as a tool for archaeologists who want to accurately catalog artifacts, prioritize conservation, and responsibly sample metals without losing information.

This Resource is Part of the Following Collections

• Successful Collection Management: Using Existing Collections for Research, Education, Public Outreach, and Innovation   •
• Society for Historical Archaeology 2016

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Contact(s): Society for Historical Archaeology

Record Identifiers

PaperId(s): 125