This is a fascinating topic and the suggested references will be very
useful.
We have recognized many of the ornamental plants mentioned at several
historic sites (late 18th-mid 20th c.) on the Mashantucket Pequot
Reservation in southeastern Connecticut. Additionally, we have identified
native plant communities such as bloodroot (Sanguinaria canadensis) and wild
ginger (Asarum canadense) that appear to be exclusively associated with
these foundation sites. In this area, these species are uncommon and rare,
respectively. We believe their presence at these sites is the product of
human selection/manipulation and a process of creating "artificial"
populations.
We are currently conducting botanical surveys to verify these vegetation
patterns. These surveys are being augmented by in-depth and site specific
ethnohistorical research. We have not yet come across any published
material regarding this aspect of remnant vegetation populations and would
appreciate any insight.
Jason
Jason R. Mancini, Staff Archaeologist
Mashantucket Pequot Museum & Research Center
110 Pequot Trail, Mashantucket, CT 06339-3180
tel. 860.396.6802 fax 860.396.6914
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-----Original Message-----
From: Bandy, Stephanie--DPW [SMTP:[log in to unmask]]
Sent: Monday, March 12, 2001 9:00 AM
To: [log in to unmask]
Subject: Re: Botany for archaeologists
When we are trying to relocate late 19th and early 20th century
sites at
Fort Hood, in Texas, we often look for fruit trees, especially plums
and
pomegranates. They tend to be pretty obvious as most of our trees
are
juniper, mesquite, and scrub oak. The fruit trees are usually found
in the
yard area of the main house, near outbuildings or cisterns, and most
are
still producing fruit. As far as thyme in cemeteries -- I believe
thyme
symbolizes love, courage, and purification, and was always planted
in
monastery gardens. Creeping thyme was referred to as Mary's
Bedstraw and
thyme was called The Virgin's Humility.
-----Original Message-----
From: Ben Ford [mailto:[log in to unmask]]
Sent: Friday, March 09, 2001 6:12 PM
To: [log in to unmask]
Subject: Botany for archaeologists
Dear All:
I am interested in finding references regarding the use of plants as
clues
for site identification.
Are there certain kinds of plants that tend to colonize structure
sites?
What sorts of domesticates and exotics were most common around homes
at
various times (e.g. boxelder, perry winkle, English ivy)?
Once the types of plants to look for have been named, is there a
particularly good book to help with identifying these species in the
field?
Thank you in advance for any words of wisdom.
Cheers,
Ben Ford
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