JNHT Osteology Workshop
February 05, 2009
The Jamaica National Heritage Trust began 2009 with much excitement hosting an eight day Osteology workshop. Osteology is the scientific study of the structures of bones, and it covers all aspects of the human skeleton structure. The analysis of one man's skeleton can tell us about the diet of his region and by extension give insight into the agriculture of the area.
The opening session was held at the Institute of Jamaica Lecture Theatre on Wednesday, January 21 then continued at Headquarters House, 79 Duke Street.
The workshop which was conducted under the theme: "Osteology: The Bone - Man Connection" was led by Dr. Ana Luis Santos.
Dr. Santos has a PhD in Biological Anthropology. She is presently a Professor in the Department of Anthropology at the University of Coimbra, Portugal. She teaches courses in human evolution, anthropology, biology and archaeology. Dr. Santos is no stranger to Jamaica. She has been working with the JNHT's Archaeology Division to identify and catalogue human remains housed at the JNHT and the University of the West Indies.
During the workshop there were displays of bones from both human and animal remains together with daily lectures consisting of PowerPoint presentations on various aspects of the bone structure. The lecturers were then followed by tutorials, in which the participants had to identify the bones along with lively discussions.
There was much enthusiasm as participants were taught how to identify human remains with regards to age, sex, growth, health and death. Everyone was excited to touch and identify different types of bones as well as with their labeling under the guidance of Dr. Santos.
Participants at the workshop included JNHT staff, archaeologists, anthropologists, conservationists, university students as well as visitors from the African-Caribbean Institute of Jamaica and other heritage enthusiasts from the general public.
The workshop concluded on Friday January 30th, with the presentation of certificates from Mr. Dorrick Gray, Technical Director, Archaeology and Dr. Santos to participants who attended for at least four days.
As a result of the workshop, the participants are now capable to correctly identify human remains. It was evident that the participants thoroughly enjoyed every aspect of the workshop and were enthusiastic about the prospect of future events.
