Constructing a Public Archaeology at Historic Spanish Point in Osprey, Florida

Date of Award

2009

Document Type

Thesis

Degree Name

Bachelors

Department

Social Sciences

First Advisor

Baram, Uzi

Keywords

Public Archaeology, Historic Spanish Point, Osprey, Florida, Civic Engagement

Area of Concentration

Anthropology

Abstract

In this thesis, I explore Historic Spanish Point, an outdoor archaeology site in Osprey, Florida for its unique and relevant importance to Florida's history and its relatively few residents of Sarasota visit the site or know of its existence or importance, while their children are being educated as to its importance as an archaeology site through Sarasota County's social studies curriculum. The notion that archaeology, and thus Historic Spanish Point, is more important to children than to adults is evident of a larger plight in archaeological discourse. While particular evidence exists at Historic Spanish Point for this problem, I use this site to theorize a different method in which site administrators might interact with their visitors. My hypothesis is that archaeology can benefit, and increase its pool of supporters by actively engaging adult visitors through a discourse on politically relevant ideas. I conclude my argument with a recommendation to the administration of Historic Spanish Point to contribute more actively to adult participation and engagement at the site.

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