Excavating Legacy: Community archaeology at a Japanese American World War II incarceration site

Abstract

ABSTRACTThis article discusses the ongoing public archaeology programme at Manzanar National Historic Site (NHS), a unit of the US National Park Service (NPS). Unlike archaeological projects rooted in academic questions or cultural resource management needs, the NPS centred its archaeological work on collaboration with descendant and local communities, respecting and drawing on their knowledge, stories, and personal connections with the site. Many young people, who will form the next generation of park visitors, supporters, and advocates, participate in the archaeological projects. Archaeology at Manzanar NHS thus ensures that the public retains an active voice as the NPS moves into its next century.