Despite the gloomy title, this topic isn’t so depressing. For although racism and poverty were accepted parts of life in the 19th century Far West, archaeology shows that human tenacity and the ability to adapt were alive and well. African American railway porters, Gold Rush era Chinese merchants, and urban Polish Jews were as culturally different as can be; and yet their varied responses to adversity—as preserved in their artifacts and history—show the common resolve to live in dignity that is part of our shared humanity. Join Dr. Adrian Praetzellis from Sonoma State University to learn about the varied cultural responses to adversity through archaeology.
Registration is not required for this event or any of the other lectures in this series. We encourage you to arrive early to reserve a spot. For more information about this event, please contact Genevieve Perdue at genevieve@bmlt.org or 541-620-5754.