Retracing the Past: Documenting the Historic Hampshire and Hampden Canal

Summary

This is a poster submission presented at the 2024 annual meeting of the Society for Historical Archaeology.

In the spring of 2022, SWCA Environmental Consultants (SWCA) conducted an archaeological reconnaissance survey on behalf of the Pioneer Valley Planning Commission (PVPC) as part of an ongoing, multi-town effort to document and map the approximately 30-mile-long, nineteenth century Hampshire and Hampden Canal. Archaeologists were able to develop a modernized approach for this effort by adapting recordation methods implemented in past canal documentation efforts across New England. SWCA’s GIS staff generated a highly accurate approximated canal route utilizing LiDAR data, in combination with historical mapping, aerial imagery, and detailed notes from local canal historians. In the field, staff successfully assessed the surficial presence, or lack thereof, of canal prism and towpath remnants, along with associated engineering features along the former canal route. Results from this effort will support the National Register nomination of the Canal in its entirety, as a significant example of Canal Era engineering in New England.

This Resource is Part of the Following Collections

• Society for Historical Archaeology 2024   •
• 2024 SHA Poster Submissions

Keywords

Individual & Institutional Roles

Contact(s): Nicole Haddow