Public Archaeology of a Historic Town and Park

Session Hosting Format: 
in-person session
Organizer(s): 
  • Dawn Ainsley, Barkerville Historic Town and Park
Contact Email: 
dawn.ainsley@barkerville.ca
Session Description (300 word max): 

Public archaeology is an integral part of sharing the recent discoveries and changes with in protected historic properties. Archaeology in Barkerville Historic Town and Park is dynamic as it covers the need for archaeological oversight in any ground disturbing work to presenting archaeological finds to the public. Public interpretation allows for the education on archaeological and heritage conservation and why sites are important for protection. Currently the park offers two public archaeology programs, one is a journey to the Barkerville Cemetery and why it was recently declared an archaeological site. The other program was based on a recent excavation beneath the historic property’s iconic Theater Royal, where there was a significant discovery was made that allowed for the positive identification of the town's first rich mining claim.  A public program was developed to share how the archaeology was conducted during the project and the process of identifying a structure as a mine shaft with reuse for waste management. In this session I would like to share the results of this excavation. 

Presentations
Connecting Campus and Community: The Boultenhouse Shipyard Archaeological Project and the Power of Town-Gown Partnerships
Presentation format: In-Person
Author(s):
  • Leslie Shumka - Mount Allison University
  • Cora Woolsey - St. Thomas University
  • John Somogyi-Csizmazia - Independent Contractor

Successful community archaeology projects rely on strong, reciprocal partnerships between academic institutions and local communities—typically referred to as town-gown collaborations. These partnerships create opportunities for shared knowledge, skill development, and cultural heritage preservation while also presenting challenges related to power dynamics, differing priorities, and sustainability. This paper explores the role of town-gown partnerships in community archaeology, with specific reference to the Boultenhouse Shipyard Archaeological Project, highlighting how universities can move beyond extractive research models toward genuinely collaborative engagement. Drawing on this local initiative, this study examines the history of and best practices for fostering equitable relationships, ensuring that both academic and community stakeholders benefit from research outcomes. It also considers the role of universities in providing resources, training, and institutional support while acknowledging the expertise and agency of local communities. By analyzing both successes and obstacles, this paper argues that town-gown partnerships, when thoughtfully structured, enhance public engagement, promote heritage stewardship, and create lasting social impact. Ultimately, this research advocates for a re-imagining of the university’s role in archaeology—not as a dominant force, but as a facilitator of shared inquiry and mutual learning.