Chemical Sourcing of Afro-Antiguan Ware from Betty’s Hope Plantation

Abstract

This chapter discusses Neutron Activation Analysis (NAA) for Afro-Antiguan and industrial ceramics excavated at Betty’s Hope plantation. Chemical analysis of the ceramics from Betty’s Hope shows that the enslaved potters of the plantation had a high degree of agency with regard to the ceramic industry. Additionally, the potters had complete control over all aspects of the production from sourcing the clay to utilizing the ceramics. While the redwares examined mostly came from an external source and originally were thought to be industrial and related to sugar production, some of them were produced locally at Betty’s Hope. The locally produced redwares could be industrial but also could represent an effort to create a unique community identity.