Visualizing Scandinavian stories: an exploration of the history of Scandinavian involvement in archaeological research at L'Anse Aux Meadows

Abstract

The L'Anse aux Meadows (LAM) archaeological site, located in Northern Newfoundland, remains the only authenticated Norse site in North America, excluding Greenland. This project examines the history of archaeological research on the site, focusing specifically on the involvement of Scandinavian researchers during the 1960s to 1970s, and aims to present the information in an accessible manner using visual tools. The results of my research are integrated through an illustrated narrative that provides an overview of field seasons at LAM in the 1960s (Ingstads’ excavations) and 1970s (Parks Canada excavations). To facilitate understanding and to visualize the history of archaeology at LAM, accessible tools, including an actor-network map and timeline, are provided. This allows the objectives and results of field seasons excavations, the original contribution of Scandinavian researchers, as well as the wider socio-political context of the research (including conflicting agendas and interests of different researchers and the NL provincial government, as well as Memorial University) to be made accessible to a non-specialist public. The methodology for this research comprised a comprehensive literature review of English and selected Icelandic source material, archival research, and oral history interviews. Archival research components included contemporary newspaper articles, site reports, photographs, and letters, especially the Ingstad’s Letters from Memorial University of Newfoundland records. Oral history interviews were conducted with Parks Canada’s Birgitta Wallace and Clayton Colbourne and focused on L’Anse aux Meadows’ community and archaeological history. By making sense and collating together elements of the story of archaeology of L’Anse aux Meadows in a succinct narrative, this project serves as a steppingstone and a tool for a broader examination of the history of research focusing on this fascinating UNESCO World Heritage site.