Why is preservation important in archaeology?

Why is preservation important in archaeology?

It is important to preserve artifacts from historical events so we can remember, learn about and honor those who were involved. When an artifact is conserved to retain its current condition, it preserves the truth of the historical story for generations to come.

How do you preserve archaeology?

Beside wax, some consolidants and varnishes may also be applied on the objects. Environment plays a major role in the conservation of artifacts. Changes in temperature and relative humidity are particularly important. Since objects remain buried for a long time, they are conditioned by the natural environment.

How do archaeologists preserve artifacts?

One of the simplest ways to help preserve your artifacts is to store them in a relatively dry environment. Typically, metal artifacts should be stored in living areas, which are much dryer then sheds garages or basements. Attics are generally too hot for most artifacts.

What determines preservation?

Distinctive materials, features, finishes and construction techniques or examples of craftsmanship that characterize a property will be preserved. The existing condition of historic features will be evaluated to determine the appropriate level of intervention needed.

What is preservation of the environment?

Preservation protects the environment from harmful human activities. For example, conserving a forest typically involves sustainable logging practices to minimize deforestation. Preservation would involve setting aside part or even all of the forest from human development.

Where is the archaeological object are preserved?

An archaeological site is a place (or group of physical sites) in which evidence of past activity is preserved (either prehistoric or historic or contemporary), and which has been, or may be, investigated using the discipline of archaeology and represents a part of the archaeological record.

What materials would preserve and not preserve in the archaeological record?

Organic remains include people, plants, animals, and anything made of plant or animal matter. These will tend to decay unless preserved in an airtight environ- ment. Inorganic remains include stone, metal, clay cement, plastic, and glass. These were never living and will not rot or decay the way organic remains do.

What are the best conditions for archaeological preservation?

Climates or environments that are arid and lack moisture provide perfect conditions for dry preservation. The hot sands of Egypt are perhaps the most common example of this.

What environments are good for preservation?

In hot, arid, and semiarid environments, often referred to as dryland environments, the absence of significant water can provide excellent conditions for preservation.

Why is preserving history so important?

Historic preservation is a conversation with our past about our future. Historic preservation is an important way for us to transmit our understanding of the past to future generations. Our nation’s history has many facets, and historic preservation helps tell these stories.

How to protect and preserve archaeological sites?

Keep artifacts in place! Ancient architecture is fragile. Do not touch, alter, or move petroglyph or pictograph panels. Do not stack rocks or leave other traces of your presence. Do not share site locations on social media. Engage in recreational activities AWAY from archaeological sites.

How archaeological sites are preserved?

The sites are then recorded and maintained by a designated agency respective to the land-ownership. As far as private property is concerned, the responsibility of protecting historical sites falls on the land owner or to organizations such as the Archaeological Conservancy who acquire portions of the land with the historical site.

What is preservation archaeology?

Archaeological conservation is the profession devoted to the preservation of objects, structures, and sites that constitute the archaeological record. These materials are primary resources for understanding and interpreting the past.

What are archaeological resources?

Archaeological resources include materials from past human activities that are more than 50 years old. There are many different types of resources including rock images (called petroglyphs), houses and other structures, pottery, weapons, tools, clothing, irrigation canals, and basketry.