Ceramic analysis and interpretation from Presidio San Saba (41MN1) Menard, Texas

Abstract

Excavations at Presidio San Sabá have been underway in Menard, Texas from 2000 to 2007 by Texas Tech University and the Texas Archaeological Society. These excavations have provided a wealth of details about the lives of the soldiers who lived at this far northern outpost of New Spain from 1757 to 1772. By describing and analyzing the ceramic artifacts recovered at this site, it is possible to understand the lifeways of the men and women who lived at the fort. Ceramic analysis provides details about the use of rooms throughout the site as well as contributes to knowledge of trade and supply, as well as the material wealth of the soldiers and their families stationed here. The ceramics recovered from San Sabá are also compared to the assemblages from other contemporary presidios to better understand the supply issues that affected the fort.