The importance of protecting archeological resources

Archeological resources are irreplaceable; they cannot be duplicated or replaced if lost, damaged or destroyed. They are treasured because they allow us physical contact with our past and are sources of knowledge about our history. Every pottery fragment, stone tool, soil layer, and feature left behind helps us:

• Understand the human experiences behind the objects;
• Honour Indigenous histories, living cultures, and enduring connections to the land;
• Learn more about Brant’s heritage and cultural landscapes; and,
• Preserve tangible evidence of Indigenous presence spanning thousands of years.

Even a small pottery fragment can offer valuable insight. For example, the fragment below has distinctive geometric decoration that reveals how pottery was made and help us to better understand those who made it.

Pottery fragment – Huron-Wendat of the St. Lawrence. Photo Credit - Musée Huron-Wendat