Skibbereen, Ireland: The Archaeology of Ireland’s Early Modern Period

Location: Skibbereen, IE

Season: May 25, 2019 to June 29, 2019

Session Dates: May 25 - June 29, 2019

Application Deadline: March 1, 2019

Deadline Type: Exact date

Website: https://globalmaryland.umd.edu/offices/education-abroad/program/11224

Program Type:
Field school

RPA Certified:
no

Affiliation:
University of Maryland, College Park, USA

Project Director:
Dr. Stephen A. Brighton

Project Description:

This summer Applied Field Program will explore the material history of the Irish Diaspora in County Cork. The location of the study is the area around Skibbereen, County Cork. Skibbereen is located 51 miles (82 km) southwest of Cork City. It became infamous as a metaphor for the impacts and horrific sufferings of the Great Starvation. Skibbereen is ideal due to its commitment to collecting Ireland’s rich heritage. The Skibbereen Museum and Heritage Center is a natural conduit between the archaeologist and the local community.

Through archaeological investigations, archival research, and interviews with local historians of the Skibbereen Heritage Center and members of the community, you will receive extensive and intensive experience learning the importance and meaning of material culture as it relates to the larger study of the Irish Diaspora, socio-cultural change in Ireland over time, as well as form the foundation for a comparable database to model and interpret the diverse worlds and experiences of Irish immigrants internationally.

This research is an important move forward in modeling the diversity of material identities in Ireland and creating a database that will be significant not only to Ireland, but also to understanding material and social continuity and change in Irish diasporic communities worldwide.

There are no pre-requisites and all students are welcome to apply. Students will earn 6 credits for participating. Students will be in the field daily and no experience necessary. It is a excellent way to learn about Irish history, culture, and heritage. Both undergraduate and graduate credits are available.

Period(s) of Occupation: Postmedieval: 1800-present

Project Size: 1-24 participants

Experience Required: No previous archaeological experience required. An Introduction to Archaeology class is recommended.

Room and Board Arrangements:
Students will stay in shared accomodations. These rental homes come fully equipped with a full kitchen, living room with television, wi-fi, and laundry facilities. Students are expected to provide their own meals and can shop at many grocery stores and restaurants in Skibbereen town. Cost: $4100, includes tuition and housing.

Academic Credit:
6 credits, undergraduate or graduate. credits offered by University of Maryland, College Park, USA. Tuition is .