Public archaeology in Annapolis

In one of the first books to gauge the success of public history projects, Parker Potter examines the goals and specific initiatives of Archaeology in Annapolis, a city-wide research program in Annapolis, Maryland, supported by public and private funds. In a nuts-and-bolts analysis of this program, Potter addresses several issues of archaeological interpretation.

Archaeologists and historians, he argues, need to take into consideration current economic, social, and political conditions, as well as the needs of sponsors, in presenting their findings. Sponsors and community leaders in Annapolis, Potter writes, are interested in preserving not only the past but also their sense of identity, especially against the encroachment of outsiders.

Emphasizing self-reflection and the integration of theory and practice, Potter suggests ways archaeologists can present challenging, critically informed interpretations to modern site visitors.

Public Archaeology in Annapolis reveals the complex undercurrents in the relationships between archaeologists and their sponsors. Potter urges archaeologists working in public programs and cultural resources management to recognize the relevance of all archaeological work and consider the application of their work to contemporary social issues.