Evolution and Horizon as Revealed in Ceramic Analysis in Historical Archaeology

Abstract

In this paper we will examine the relationship between the manufacture period of ceramic types found on British American sites Bnd the occupation period for the sites on which type fragments are found. We will present data indicating that on eighteenth century sites there is a high correlation between the ceramic manufacture dates and the site occupation period. We will also look at the effectiveness of ceramic analysis based on presence and absence as compared to quantification of fragments of ceramic types. The process of evolution and horizon as reflected in analysis of ceramics from historic sites will also be examined.