 | Charleston : An Archaeology of Life in a Coastal Community Choice Outstanding Academic Title Society for Historical Archaeology James Deetz Book Award The archaeology and history of one of the most storied cities of the American South Charleston,South Carolina, is one of the most storied cities of the AmericanSouth. Widely recognized for its historic buildings, its thrivingmaritime culture, and its role in the Civil War, Charleston is alsoconsidered the birthplace of historic preservation. Martha Zierden andElizabeth Reitz--whose archaeological fieldwork in the city spans morethan three decades--explore the evolution of the urban environment, theintricacies of provisioning such a robust city, and the urban foodwaysthat continue to inspire Charleston's culture. In Charleston,Zierden and Reitz weave archaeology and history to illuminate thisvibrant, densely packed Atlantic port city. They detail the residential,commercial, and public life of the city, the ruins of taverns, markets,and townhouses, including those of Thomas Heyward, shipping merchantNathaniel Russell, and William Aiken. The authors shed light on thedynamics of production, distribution, and consumption of goods andservices that linked the city with rural neighbors and global markets.They also trace fish and game from the woods and waters to the kitchenswhere the food was prepared and the tables where it was served. Zierdenand Reitz reveal how global trade goods combined with indigenous flavorsto create a cuisine that was uniquely Charleston. Theartifacts unearthed show how Charleston continued to grow and developas it contended with public health initiatives necessitated bypost-Civil War changes, the fire of 1861, and the earthquake of 1886.They also testify to the city's arts and finery and to the challengesexperienced by laboring slaves, house servants, and otherunderprivileged citizens. By reminding us that urban areas shape and areshaped by their inhabitants, Charleston evokes the essence of the deeply complex city whose influence was felt throughout the Atlantic World. |
