Community Archaeology
Community archaeology is archaeology by the people for the people, and better known as public archaeology. This view of archaeology is empowered by the interests of the community to better understand the cultural material which lies beneath the ground in their community (e.g. streets, houses, gardens, fields, and forests). Because people are intrigued by discoveries made by archaeologists there is an element of intrigue and passion to become involved with archaeological processes so they can learn to assist archaeologists with their field research discoveries and reconstruction of past events.
The concept of community archaeology has been known for many decades now, but only recently became known and identified by this name. The origins of archaeological science itself began with traditional antiquarian and amateur work supported by locally based historical, and later, archaeological societies. The result has been the development of archaeological sciences at educational institutions which helped to establish the professionalism of archaeology and the scientific methods used to recover artifacts. Because archaeology became more professional it limited the opportunities for people to be involved with archaeology. As a result, community archaeology was created as a way for persons with no professional background to become aware, participate, and contribute their time and support to archaeological projects.
Archaeology is not only about humanity and its changes in culture and diffusion of populations over time, but also identifying changes in geographic landforms, environments, and species. Within communities archaeology is constantly being given attention through local museums which continue to make efforts to educate the public about the past. The result has been greater public awareness not only of their most recent past, but the past that can date from a few hundred years to several thousand.
The public can participate in archaeology by taking part in training excavations where they can learn the methods and techniques used by archaeologists in the recovery of historical and prehistoric artifacts. This is a hands-on practical experience which offers participants the opportunity to develop new skills, a sense of achievement, but more importantly, a contribution and investment of their time to recover and protect information about the past. As a result, these participants can further support archaeological endeavours within their community by acting as guides at archaeological sites, giving public lectures at local museums, and educating the youth of the community about the importance of archaeology in the present and the future.
The Haldimand/Norfolk Archaeological Research Project was designed to develop a relationship of trust and respect between members of the community who are private landowners and those who work in archaeology. This project will benefit these counties and their communities by heightening their sense of place and pride not only about their immediate past, but the past of other people who crossed the lands before them. This project will also help to create opportunities for the community to make decisions that can improve and maintain the long-term management of their historic and prehistoric past. The involvement of the community can also change the views and ways archaeologists involve the community regarding their research agendas and interpreting the past.
“Giving the past a future”