Date of Award
2013
Document Type
Thesis
Degree Name
Bachelors
Department
Social Sciences
First Advisor
Baram, Uzi
Keywords
Braden Castle, Public Memory, Landscapes
Area of Concentration
Anthropology
Abstract
The research design of this thesis is a foundation for understanding the community evolution of Braden Castle Park Historic District and the significance of the Braden Castle ruins to the current residents in Bradenton Florida. It also contributes insight on challenges confronted in historic preservation and historical archaeology as well as further research regarding public memory, landscape transitions and the role these memories play in contemporary society. This thesis reviews literature associated with landscapes, collective memory and heritage and the ways in which places are commemorated or forgotten. It also examines the history and archaeology of the Braden Castle with a photographic timeline as well as a detailed analysis of the castle ruins in its present day condition. An ethnographic evaluation, made possible by conducting community interviews, is also provided and reveals the public collection of memories from the residents of Braden Castle Park and how those memories spring from the historic ruins of the Braden Castle. The impetus of this thesis is to obtain an understanding of the Braden Castle as a focal point on a transitional landscape made possible through public memory. The thesis was inspired by one main research question; how do collective, public memories in regard to historic places, become inscribed upon landscapes and effect contemporary society and heritage? Secondary questions include; which historical events are remembered or forgotten and why? How is heritage connected to a place through public memory? And, why are there so many missing pieces and silenced voices in the Braden Castle's history? The story of the Braden Castle is just a small example of the dilemmas associated with historical archaeology, historic preservation and ways in which public memory effects the landscape just as the landscape effects society.
Recommended Citation
Roach, Rachel, "MEANINGFUL RUINS: PUBLIC MEMORY AND THE TRANSITIONAL LANDSCAPES OF THE BRADEN CASTLE OF BRADENTON FLORIDA" (2013). Theses & ETDs. 6792.
https://digitalcommons.ncf.edu/theses_etds/6792
Rights
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