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The term was coined in the 1950s in Birmingham by Michael Rix (Palmer 1998:1), although its meaning and interpretation has changed with use and time. Palmer and Neaverson (Industrial Archaeology Principles and Practice, 1998) defined industrial archaeology as: “the systematic study of structures and artifacts as a means of enlarging our understanding of the industrial past.” As an interest initially practiced largely by amateurs, it has in the past been looked down upon by professional archaeologists. However, with growing awareness of the usefulness of archaeological study of the recent past, elements of what were formerly 'industrial archaeology' have been welcomed into the broader framework of mainstream archaeology. Since the timeframe of study is relatively recent, industrial archaeology is well placed to develop on the basis of more reliable and absolute recording of its past, present and future than other areas of archaeological interest. Those interested may make field trips to abandoned or mostly forgotten industrial sites, or may examine annual reports, engineering and building drawings and documentation, government documents and surveys, and other historical materials to try to determine and document what sorts of activities went on, and why, at a particular site, and construct a history or timeline that shows how a site developed and changed (and potentially when and why it was abandoned) over time. One example of such a site is the Saugus Iron Works National Historic Site , site of the first integrated iron works in North America. Since the site dates to the 1600s, developing a clear understanding of what was done, and how it was carried out, as well as the facility arrangement, was a painstaking and difficult process. One of the first areas in the UK to be the subject of a systematic study of 'industrial archaeology' was the period. Following the pioneering lead of Ironbridge , other areas have been subject to often innovative studies. Recent work in has led to Sheffield's 17th, 18th and 19th century history as a Steel producer being revealed. This has been enabled by both a massive series of redevelopments allowing access to the archaeology, and the realisation that such studies can benefit the community and our understanding of the past as a whole. TOPICS IN INDUSTRIAL ARCHAEOLOGY See List Of Industrial Archaeology Topics Exclusions Industrial archaeologists generally do not study these topics:
ACADEMIC PROGRAMS Two universities offer degrees in Industrial Archaeology. In the United States , Michigan Technological University grants a degree in Industrial History and Archaeology. In the UK , the University Of Birmingham grants a masters degree in Industrial Archaeology. A typical Masters programme in Industrial History or Archaeology may draw on historical archaeology, anthropology of industry, history of technology, and historical preservation fields of study. A doctoral program in Industrial Heritage and Archeology may expand to include work in American or European civilization, architectural history, material culture, and heritage management. ORGANIZATIONAL CHARTERS There are at least two national industrial archaeology societies or organizations known to exist. An organization such as the Society For Industrial Archaeology (SIA) or Association For Industrial Archaeology (AIA) is an organisation for people who share an interest in the industrial past. It brings together people who are researching, recording, preserving and presenting industrial heritage. Industrial architecture, mineral extraction, heritage-based tourism, power technology, adaptive re-use of industrial buildings and transport history are just some of the themes that could be investigated by society members. It may also be involved in advising on historic preservation matters, or advising government units on revision or demolition of significant sites or buildings. SEE ALSO EXTERNAL LINKS General Societies and organisations National Organisations
Local Organisations
Reference materials
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