J. C. Harrington Medal in Historical Archaeology

Excavation Techniques in Historical Archaeology

This paper discusses the development of excavation techniques in England and their application to historical archaeology in Australia. Edward Higginbotham, a consultant archaeologist in Sydney, applies his experience of excavations in both countries to a critical analysis of various excavation methods, including test-pits, trial-trenches, the grid method, and area excavation. The advantages, ef...

Introduction: scales and voices in world historical archaeology

This paper briefly sets the scene for the articles that follow, introducing some key debates that have characterized the recent practice of historical archaeology. The definition of historical archaeology is explored according to parameters of chronology and methodology, drawing a distinction between New World traditions that define the subject as ‘post-Columbian’ and Old World approaches that ...

Historical Archaeology in Africa: Representation, Social Memory, and Oral Traditions

The Challenge of Race to American Historical Archaeology

Historical archaeologists should be leaders in examining the archaeological dimensions of race and racism in the United States. With few exceptions, though, this has not been the case, as most archaeologists have conflated race and ethnicity. American historical archaeologists have a great opportunity to provide new insights to the anthropological investigation of race and racism if they choose...

Indigenous Archaeology: Historical Interpretation from an Emic Perspective

This inquiry explores indigenous archaeology as a form of resistance to dominant Western science. Literature was identified and analyzed pertaining to the success of indigenous archaeology in the United States, British Columbia, and Australia. It is argued that a more inclusive archaeology is necessary, one that encourages partnerships with Indigenous groups in the interpretation of their own p...