Curator Talk: Archaeology and Foodways with Curator of Historical Archaeology Martha Zierden
Years of zooarchaeological research shows that beef was the dominant meat in the Charleston diet, from the late 17th century through the late 19th century. A large research project, funded by the National Science Foundation, is exploring the colonial landscape and the cattle ranching economy, using teeth recovered from the Museum’s many excavations in Charleston. Stable isotope analysis from these teeth tell us where cattle were grazing, what they were eating, whether they were free-range or penned, and, ultimately, how they were transported to the Charleston markets. Curator of Historic Archaeology Martha Zierden will summarize the findings to date, and share artifacts and animal bones that inform on Charleston’s early ranching industry and market economy.
Curator Talk programs provide visitors with an overview of a specified topic related to the Museum’s extraordinary and diverse collections before exploring the galleries on their own. Held in the Arthur M. Wilcox Auditorium, each Curator-led talk allows participants to immerse themselves in different areas of Charleston’s rich history with insight provided by the Museum’s knowledgeable curatorial staff. Conversations with a Curator and Curator Talks programs are typically held on the second Friday of each month.
All Curator Talk programs are open to the public and FREE for Members and FREE with admission. Effective August 2, 2021: Per Charleston County requirement all persons must wear face coverings when in Charleston County indoor public spaces. Accordingly, masks must be worn while visiting The Charleston Museum and its historic houses. Thank you for your cooperation and for helping our community to prevent the spread of COVID-19.
Date/Time
11/12/2021, 10:30 am
Location
The Charleston Museum
360 Meeting Street
Charleston, South Carolina 29403