Digital public archaeology: Excavating data from digs done decades ago

In a recent article, Emily Fletcher discusses the importance of digital public archaeology in excavating data from past digs and connecting with present-day communities. She highlights the case of the Gulkana Site in Alaska, where ancestral copperworking tools were found but remain relatively unknown. Fletcher emphasizes the challenge of the "legacy data backlog" in archaeology, where records from excavations are often left unanalyzed. She introduces the concept of digital public archaeology, combining digital methods with community engagement to revitalize old data. By using modern technologies like AI to analyze decades-old excavation notes, Fletcher aims to uncover more about the Gulkana Site and involve local communities in the process. Through collaborations with descendants and youth programs, she demonstrates how digital archaeology can bridge the gap between past discoveries and present-day connections. Fletcher's work underscores the value of reexamining old archaeological data to gain new insights and engage with heritage in the digital age.