Field notes

Definition

Field notes are detailed records made by archaeologists during excavations, capturing observations, measurements, and other relevant information about the site and artifacts. They serve as a critical tool for documenting the archaeological process, ensuring that every detail is recorded systematically, which is essential for later analysis and interpretation of findings.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Field notes are typically organized by date, location, and specific activities conducted during the excavation to facilitate easy reference.
2. They include sketches, diagrams, and photographs that complement written descriptions, providing a visual context to the recorded observations.
3. Field notes help maintain the chain of custody for artifacts, ensuring that each item is properly attributed to its location and context within the site.
4. They serve as a primary source of data for later analysis, interpretations, and reporting, making them essential for peer review and publication processes.
5. Archaeologists often use standardized formats for field notes to ensure consistency and clarity in documentation across different projects.

Review Questions

• How do field notes contribute to the overall understanding of an archaeological excavation?
  • Field notes are crucial because they provide a comprehensive account of all activities and observations made during an excavation. By recording details such as artifact locations, stratigraphy, and contextual information, they ensure that every aspect of the site is documented. This level of detail is vital for reconstructing the site's history and understanding the relationships between different artifacts and their contexts.
• What role do field notes play in preserving the integrity of artifacts found during excavations?
  • Field notes play an essential role in preserving artifact integrity by documenting where each item was found and how it relates to other findings within the site. By creating a detailed record of the excavation process, archaeologists can maintain a clear chain of custody for each artifact. This documentation ensures that artifacts can be accurately analyzed in relation to their original context, which is critical for historical interpretation.
• Evaluate the impact of meticulous field note-taking on the future study and interpretation of archaeological sites.
  • Meticulous field note-taking significantly enhances future study and interpretation by providing a detailed record that scholars can rely on for various analyses. Good field notes allow researchers to revisit past excavations with confidence that they have access to accurate data about site conditions, artifact placements, and excavation techniques. As a result, this thorough documentation can lead to new insights or reinterpretations of historical events or cultural practices based on previously recorded information.

Related terms

stratigraphy: The study of rock layers (strata) and layering (stratification), used in archaeology to understand the chronological sequence of site occupation and deposition.

excavation: The process of systematically uncovering archaeological remains through digging, which involves careful planning and recording to preserve context and information.

artifact: Any object made or used by humans that is of historical or archaeological interest, providing insight into past cultures and societies.