Conversations with a Curator: Curator of Historic Archaeology Martha Zierden on Archaeology, Rice Planters, and Charleston’s Consumer Revolution


Conversations with a Curator: Curator of Historic Archaeology Martha Zierden on Archaeology, Rice Planters, and Charleston's Consumer Revolution

By the eve of the American Revolution, Charleston was the fourth largest city in the North American colonies and by far the wealthiest.  Planters grew wealthy from the cultivation of rice, while merchants made fortunes in shipping and trade, all built on the labor of enslaved Africans.  Charlestonians with the means to do so built new houses and planted formal gardens. They purchased furniture, silver, porcelain, textiles, paintings, and other finery.  Charleston’s consumer revolution is reflected in the history collections and the fragmentary artifacts recovered from archaeological excavations; both are displayed in the Museum’s Lowcountry History Hall.  Curator of Historical Archaeology Martha Zierden will guide you through the “Riches” section, describing the archaeological excavations that produced the artifacts on display.

Conversations with a Curator allows visitors a chance to have an intimate look at an exhibit in The Charleston Museum, hear stories, ask questions and spark conversations. The Museum’s collections are both extraordinary and diverse and each Curator-led talk and tour will allow participants to immerse themselves in different areas of Charleston’s history.

All Conversations with a Curator programs are open to the public and FREE for Members and free with admission.

Conversations with a Curator programs are typically held on the second Friday of each month, with a few exemptions.

Date/Time

03/10/2017, 10:30 am - 11:45 am

Location

The Charleston Museum
360 Meeting Street
Charleston, South Carolina 29403

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