Bones and Seeds - Examining the faunal and botanical remains at Wingo's
See also: Lesson plan
Overview: You have just received the data on the bones and the seeds that were excavated at the Wingo's site. What does this archaeological evidence tell us about which foods were eaten by enslaved people who lived there?
You will need to reference
Your task is to carefully examine the data and write a report that explains the findings. The questions below will help you in presenting your findings. While these data include scientific terms you should write your report using the common names for animals and plants. You can use the Research Book for more information.
Report Template
Introduction: Write a brief summary of the archaeological site
Botanicals section- use the data to write a summary that includes the following:
- What types of plants were represented? Produce a summary table by category.
- What were some of the most common edible plants found at the site?
- What were some of the rarer plants?
- Where do these plants grow?
Faunal section - use the data to write a summary that includes the following:
- What species of animals were represented?
- What were some of the most common species of animal found at the site (by count)?
- What were some of the rarer animals (by count)?
- What types of bones were most commonly seen? Why might this be the case?
- How might people have acquired some of these animals?
- Which animals might they have preferred to eat – domestic or wild? Why?
- Can you think of other reasons why people might have used these animals besides food?
Conclusion:
Summarize your findings commenting on what you found surprising or interesting. What foods did they eat that you eat at home? Are there foods that they ate that you have never eaten? Why do you think some food choices have changed and some have stayed the same?
