Abstract:

Clay pipes are one of the most frequently found artifacts on an historic site. Serious study of them began in the 1940's. Since that time, typologies and dating techniques have been developed, the merits and disadvantages of which are discussed in terms of their application to a site collection. The current cataloguing methods and research goals of the National Historic Sites Service in the field of pipes are explained, and the social, temporal, and economic variables of the industry are discussed as they affect the interpretation of North American sites. Areas still in need of research are outlined, from a study of the Dutch industry to identification of local Canadian and American manufacturers.