The Cultural and Historic Preservation program is pleased to offer an archaeological field school this summer at the site of an 18^th century plantation in North Kingstown, Rhode Island. This site is part of a network of plantations owned by a unique class of New England colonial gentry known as the “Narragansett Planters.” These families derived their wealth largely from the agricultural pursuits of enslaved African and African American laborers - specifically cider and cheese production and raising horses. Our project will employ archaeological methods and historical research to explore the daily lives of the enslaved people living and working on this plantation. Our goal is to use archaeology to contribute to the growing narrative of colonial slavery in New England- a narrative that is moving beyond a single description of slavery as an institution to incorporate diverse stories about the intersection of lives.

This class will also provide students with a modern cultural experience of the region, which includes South County and Newport, Rhode Island. Students selecting the 3-credit option may choose either 2-week session (6/3-6/13 or 6/17-6/28). Students selecting the 6-credit option will participate in the full 4-week course (6/3-6/28). Students will be housed on the campus of Salve Regina University in the heart of Newport and are encouraged to explore all it has to offer. Students will see, hear, and taste the uniqueness of Rhode Island through excursions to important historical and cultural sites, attractions, and restaurants.