Archaeology of Wood and Woodworking

3 credits · Undergraduate

The purpose of this course is to acquaint students with the different holistic methods used to assess and interpret wood remains in the archaeological record. The course includes an overview of both scientific and social analyses. The first half focuses on the factors that impact wooden material survival, tree science, the identification of archaeological woods, and dendrochronology. We will then learn about different woodworking tools and techniques, and consider approaches for identifying woodworking tool marks in the material record. We will examine a selection of case studies to better understand what wooden objects can reveal about past cultures. Students will receive hands-on opportunities to examine wood anatomy using microscopy, and create and examine tool marks. Students should expect to participate fully in discussions and to present an article to their peers