Gretchen,

It ultimately depends on how you wish to use these arifacts. In my
opinion they aren't archaeological because they are above-ground and
are not identified with a specific strata or feature - which is
ultimately the basis for archaeological datam. They are closer to a
history or decorative arts type collection but also are unique and
pristine because they were deposited within walls and did not have a
longer subsequent history or provenance. And they are intimately
associated with architecture but do not comprise architectural
fragments.

I would say that they are probably closest in context to your
curatorial collections - they would make a fascinating exhibit if you
could recreate the wall section where they were found - visitors
absolutely love these sorts of discoveries! (and I have met a few
people who read the news about these sorts of finds and immediately
went home to open up some walls in their old houses!).

Cheers!
Dave

David Harvey
Conservator
Los Angeles, California



On 8/14/06, Gretchen Goodell <[log in to unmask]> wrote:
>
>
>
>
> Dear Colleagues:
>
>
>
> We are currently examining the correct placement of a grouping of objects
> that have been found within walls of historic buildings through
> architectural investigations and restorations.  The objects run the gamut
> from animal remains to buttons and shoes.  They are currently being
> cataloged and housed with our architectural fragments collection, but
> discussion has been taking place within our organization as to whether that
> is the most logical location for them.  We also have a curatorial collection
> and an archaeological collection; it seems that arguments can be made for
> their inclusion in any of these collections in some manner.
>
>
>
> Do any of you have similar collections at your institution?  If so, how do
> you deal with them?
>
>
>
> Thank you in advance for helping us think through this issue!
>
>
>
> Gretchen
>
>
>
> Gretchen M. Goodell
>
> Assistant Curator
>
> George Washington's Mount Vernon
>
> P.O. Box 110
>
> Mount Vernon, VA  22121
>
> Phone:  703-799-5208
>
> Fax:  703-799-8698
>
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