Charleston

Society for Historical Archaeology James Deetz Book Award

Choice Outstanding Academic Title



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 American

South. Widely recognized for its historic buildings, its thriving

maritime culture, and its role in the Civil War, Charleston is also

considered the birthplace of historic preservation. Martha Zierden and

Elizabeth Reitz--whose archaeological fieldwork in the city spans more

than three decades--explore the evolution of the urban environment, the

intricacies of provisioning such a robust city, and the urban foodways

that continue to inspire Charleston's culture.



In Charleston,

Zierden and Reitz weave archaeology and history to illuminate this

vibrant, 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 merchant

Nathaniel Russell, and William Aiken. The authors shed light on the

dynamics of production, distribution, and consumption of goods and

services that linked the city with rural neighbors and global markets.

They also trace fish and game from the woods and waters to the kitchens

where the food was prepared and the tables where it was served. Zierden

and Reitz reveal how global trade goods combined with indigenous flavors

to create a cuisine that was uniquely Charleston.

The

artifacts unearthed show how Charleston continued to grow and develop

as it contended with public health initiatives necessitated by

post-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 challenges

experienced by laboring slaves, house servants, and other

underprivileged citizens. By reminding us that urban areas shape and are

shaped by their inhabitants, Charleston evokes the essence of the deeply complex city whose influence was felt throughout the Atlantic World.