Buried Lives: An Archaeological Investigation of a Louisiana Plantation Midden

Summary

This is an abstract from the "SAA 2024: Individual Abstracts" session, at the 89th annual meeting of the Society for American Archaeology.

This paper delves into an in-depth archaeological investigation of the Evergreen Plantation Slave Quarters (16SJB63) in southern Louisiana. Ground-penetrating radar (GPR) data analysis and subsequent excavation endeavors centered around units adjoining Cabin 1 uncover a vivid narrative. The exploration of Test Units 15, 18, 20, 21, and 25 reveals discrepancies between GPR indications and actual excavation depths, fostering a reevaluation of the site's historical timeline. The paper not only presents a meticulous analysis of the excavated artifacts but also situates these findings within the broader context of plantation archaeology in southern Louisiana. Moreover, this paper adopts a humanistic perspective, amplifying the voices of the enslaved and their descendants who have been underrepresented in historical narratives. Through creative interpretation, the study provides a platform for the marginalized, offering a richer understanding of their experiences within the plantation setting. Ultimately, this paper seeks to reconstruct the buried lives of Evergreen's past inhabitants, contributing to a more authentic portrayal of plantation life and history. By illuminating the complexities of this historical site, this research strives to create a deeper connection between present and past, bridging gaps in understanding and fostering a more inclusive appreciation of the human experience.

This Resource is Part of the Following Collections

• SAA 2024: Individual Abstracts   •
• Society for American Archaeology 89th Annual Meeting, New Orleans, LA (2024)

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Record Identifiers

Abstract Id(s): 38273.0