I'm an M.Sc. student in Bioarchaeology and Geoarchaeology at the
Institute of Archaeology, University College London.  I'm using SEM to study
cement layering in cattle teeth as a means of determining season of death
(and possibly age at death).  I hope this technique will aid in
interpretations of seasonal slaughter patterns, and subsistence systems in
general, at American historical sites.  I have access to a limited amount of
known season of death samples from modern cattle, but I would also like to
examine archaeological material.
 
        I'm looking for mandibles with fairly complete tooth rows from
American historical sites.  Cattle mandibles would be preferred, but
sheep/goat or pig mandibles would also be useful.  It would be best to get a
collection of mandibles from one context or at least deposited over a short
period of time.  This would be the most ideal situation, but I realize this
may not be available, so I would compromise.  Also, any advice on how to
obtain modern specimens of known age or season of death would be appreciated.
 
        I'm returning to Maryland today, so please send any responses to:
 
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I'll be able to drive and visit any relatively nearby collections (I'm
flexible) between 6/12 and 6/28.  If anyone is willing to mail samples I'll
gladly pay the postage.  I welcome any offers of material or advice.  I
apologize for the short notice.
 
Thank you,
Andrea Shapiro