The Conservation of Archaeological Metals: The Copper Alloy Cartridge Cases and Lead Slugs from Wyoming's Fort Fred Steele

Summary

North American archaeology is well behind European archaeology in effectively addressing the special conservation concerns for metal artifacts. The primary threat to archaeological metals is corrosion. The copper alloy cartridge cases and lead slugs recovered from Fort Fred Steele, Wyoming, are excellent examples of metal corrosion and conservation in North America. With a basic understanding of corrosion and corrosion products, effective recovery, cleaning, and storage techniques can be devised to preserve the physical integrity and research potential metal artifacts possess. Relative humidity, temperature, and pollutants are the primary factors which must be controlled for effective conservation and preservation of archaeological metals. Effective conservation of archaeological metals also benefits the public. Archaeological artifacts, especially those from public lands, are held in public trust. Therefore, effective conservation becomes the responsibility of archaeologists and curators on behalf of the public. Also, stable, well-preserved artifacts improve the quality of public education programs and museum exhibits.

This Resource is Part of the Following Collections

• Wyoming Archaeologist 2000

Keywords

Individual & Institutional Roles

Contact(s): Marcia Peterson

File Information