A Guide to the Artifacts of Colonial America - by Ivor Noël Hume (Paperback)

About the Book

Back in print, this is the most accurate and useful reference for identifying Anglo-American colonial artifacts.

Book Synopsis

Cited in virtually every colonial-era site study of North America, A Guide to Artifacts of Colonial America holds a place of honor among historical archaeologists. It is a classic, highly sought-after handbook for the professional archaeologist, museum curator, antiques dealer, collector, or social historian. Though first published more than thirty years ago, Ivor Noel Hume's guide continues to be the most useful and accurate reference on the identification of artifacts recovered from Anglo-American colonial sites.

This edition contains a new preface, updated references, and corrections based on recent scholarship, in addition to the original 102 photographs and line drawings. With a list of forty-three categories, including buttons, cutlery, stoneware, and firearms, collectors and curators of early American artifacts will find this book insightful, informative, and indispensable.

An acclaimed archaeologist and historian, Noël Hume understands the interests of both professionals and enthusiasts. He manages to combine out-of-the-ordinary information with a lively presentation. His extensive knowledge and experience make this richly detailed text communicate something beyond the facts--the reality of other times, places, and cultures.

Review Quotes

"An invaluable compendium of information on identifying and dating objects commonly recovered from Anglo-American sites predating 1800."-- "Archaeology Magazine"

About the Author

Ivor Noel Hume is the former Chief Archaeologist and Director of the Department of Archaeology at Colonial Williamsburg. He is a founding fellow of the American Society of Historical Archaeology. In 1993 he was made O.B.E. for service to British cultural interests in Virginia.