Archaeology at the JNHT
Archaeology is the study of human cultures through the recovery, documentation and analysis of material remains from our past.
Conservation work being done at Mountain River Cave
The Jamaica National Heritage Trust (JNHT) is the agency responsible for regulating all archaeological research in Jamaica. This includes public archaeology projects, salvage/rescue archaeology, archaeological impact assessments and research on major development projects. The Archaeology Division at the JNHT practices collection management of artifacts and conservation to stabilize and extend the life of the artifacts. It also maintains a National Inventory of Historical and Archaeological Sites. The JNHT now has a complement of 8 archaeologists and cultural resource managers.
The Core Activities of the Archaeological Division include:
- Identification, inventory, assessment, research, interpretation and monitoring of archaeological sites and objects
- Conducting Archaeological Impact Assessments (AIA) of proposed developments nationwide
- Conducting arcaheological research projects with national, regional and international partners
- Conservation and protection of moveable and immovable objects
- Maintenance of a national inventory of archaeological and historical sites
- Maintenance of a GIS data base of sites
- Maintenance of a data base of archaeological objects, photos,
- Participating in the development of a National Heritage Information system
- Maintaining national, regional and international networks on conservation, preservation and protection of archaeological sites, monuments and objects.
Major Archaeological Projects in Jamaica
Archaeologists excavating at Stony Gut
Modern Archaeology in Jamaica began with excavation of the White Marl Taino Site in 1947 by Robert Howard. He published the first scientific study of the pre-history of Jamaica. Other major archaeological projects include: English archaeologist Phillip Mayes’ excavations in the Old Naval Dockyard in Port Royal; Texas A&M/INA and the JNHT’s underwater excavations on the sunken city of Port Royal; The excavation of the African Jamaican Village at Seville in St. Ann and the Simon Frazer’s University/JNHT’s excavation of the Spanish Sugar Mill and Stone Masons Workshop, St. Ann.
Stages of Archaeological Research
Pre Excavation
Desk Based Assessment (Archival Research)
Archaeological Brief
Archaeological Appraisal (Reconnaissance Field Walk)
Excavation
Clearing of site
Laying of grids 1 m x 1m
Digging of test pits
Retrieval and labeling of artifacts
Recording stratigraphy of pits and other features
Geographical Information System
Photography
Members of the Finds Unit at work
Post Excavation
Processing of Artifacts
Recording
Washing/cleaning
Inventorizing
Illustrating
Photography
Analysis
Conservation
Preparation of Report
Archaeological Evaluation Report
Archaeological Impact Assessment (AIA)
