The missing link: Archaeological resource protection in Charleston, South Carolina

摘要

Charleston, South Carolina is one of the nation's leading cities in preservation of its built environment---meaning historically and architecturally significant dwellings, sites, and structures. Protection of the city's underground resources, however, falls considerably behind as there is no archaeological preservation ordinance in place, nor is there an archaeological commission or city archaeologist to oversee and administer development projects potentially affecting significant historic and archaeological remains. Excavation and preservation of Charleston's archaeological sites is essential in providing insight to the development of the city and its unique cultural heritage.;The purpose of this study is to address the need for archaeological resource protection for the city by providing a better understanding of the importance of urban archaeology and by examining and identifying gaps within current federal, state, and local archaeological preservation regulations. Furthermore, three case studies of localities with effective protection measures---Alexandria, Virginia, St. Augustine, Florida, and Pima County, Arizona---will be provided to study and compare the efficiency of the primary components of each approach and how they can apply to Charleston. In conclusion, recommendations will be offered on how Charleston can effectively incorporate archaeological protection measures into city regulations in order for the preservation of the city's archaeological heritage to reflect the same level of excellence Charleston has achieved in preservation of the built environment.