Unearthing Local History Through Community Archaeology
Introduction
Community archaeology offers a fascinating blend of local history and hands-on involvement. It allows residents to connect with their heritage in a tangible way, uncovering hidden stories and building strong community bonds.
The Heritage West Project: Unearthing Local History
The Heritage West project, launched by Penn Museum archaeologists in 2019, focuses on local archaeological resources through community involvement. Unlike traditional archaeology, which often examines faraway places and times, this project studies the history within University City, specifically the Black Bottom community.
Community Input: The Project's Foundation
Local involvement is at the heart of the project. Initial discussions with groups like the Black Bottom Tribe Association and HopePHL helped focus the work on the Black Bottom, a once-thriving area before urban redevelopment in the 1960s. I think this collaborative approach is what makes the project so special.
Capturing Memories
The project involved creating timelines at public events where community members could share their memories and knowledge of the neighborhood. This not only adds to the archaeological data but also strengthens community ties, giving residents a sense of ownership and pride.
Digging into the Past: Excavation Begins
In 2023, the project moved into the excavation phase, focusing on a parking lot at the Community Education Center. This site was known as one of the last undeveloped areas in University City. Historical research confirmed that homes from the late 19th century once stood here.
Geophysical Surveys: Seeing Beneath the Surface
The archaeological team used geophysical surveys to find the remains of the old homes. These methods are important for uncovering the past without extensive digging.
Hands-On Learning: Engaging Local Scholars
During the excavation, students from the Penn course “Digging in the City of Brotherly Love” and community members worked side-by-side, learning excavation techniques. This was a unique opportunity to gain hands-on experience outside of a traditional college setting.
Unearthing the Past: Findings and Significance
The excavation uncovered many items, ranging from household goods to pieces of buildings, revealing details about the lives of Black Bottom residents. Each item has the potential to spark memories and stories, enriching the historical record.
Digging Together: Community Participation
Throughout the dig season, Fridays were dedicated to community digging, with members, students, and volunteers collaborating. Public events provided a platform for past residents to share their stories, ensuring the community's voice was heard throughout the process.
Lab Work: A Collaborative Effort
After the dig, the project transitioned to the lab, where approximately 30 community members and students cleaned, sorted, and studied over 19,000 items. This teamwork promoted transparency and gave participants a sense of accomplishment.
What's Next? Analysis and Future Plans
While excavation is a major part of archaeology, much of the work involves studying the finds. This helps us understand the neighborhood's former residents and record their oral histories, linking them to the physical objects discovered.
Megan C. Kassabaum, Ph.D., is Weingarten Associate Curator of the American Section and Associate Professor of Anthropology. Sarah Linn, Ph.D., is Associate Director of Academic Engagement. Douglas Smit, Ph.D., is a Teaching Assistant Professor in Anthropology at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill.
Disseminating Knowledge: Sharing the Past
The excavation results will be shared with the Community Advisory Board to determine the best ways to preserve and disseminate the information. This may include digital archives, exhibits, and community events to ensure broad access to the findings.
Final Thoughts
Heritage West demonstrates how community archaeology can uncover hidden histories and bridge past and present generations. Projects like this enrich local knowledge and identity, contributing to our understanding of how urban development impacts communities.
If you're inspired to explore heritage sites, think about how cultural and historical engagement shapes your understanding of the places you visit.
Tip: When visiting historical sites, look beyond the main exhibits. The smaller, less obvious displays often hold the most compelling stories.
