Parks and Public Squares -- Brunswick

We usually think of parks and public squares as places where we do things like playing baseball, having picnics, walking the dog, etc. We do not normally think of them as places where we "do" archaeology. That's wrong for parks and squares are archaeological resources. Park plans, layouts, monuments and plantings reflect the values and attitudes of their designers.

We do not recommend an archaeology field trip to public parks as a self-sufficient activity. You might include a visit to Hanover Square or another park in conjunction with a field trip to cemeteries or sidewalk exploration.

Parks and squares change over time. This image illustrates one type of change: the addition of statuary in Hanover Square.
Plantings of flowers, shrubs and trees are also important factors in the life of parks and squares. Sometimes an isolated tree, like Lovers' Oak, can become so important that a (small) square is created around it.
Some parks are quite simple affairs. This one, Arco Park, in a working class neighborhood has only a utility building, a small picnic area and playground. It has no imposing statues or flower beds. The layout is informal and functional. What does it tell us about society?
Plantings shape space. These live oaks create an shaded entrance road at Retreat Plantation on St. Simons Island and make a powerful statement about the owners. Similar plantings can be found all around the Southeast.
Next: Parks and Public Spaces -- St. Simons Island


	Parks and squares change over time. This image illustrates one type of change: the addition of statuary in Hanover Square.
Plantings of flowers, shrubs and trees are also important factors in the life of parks and squares. Sometimes an isolated tree, like Lovers' Oak, can become so important that a (small) square is created around it.
	Some parks are quite simple affairs. This one, Arco Park, in a working class neighborhood has only a utility building, a small picnic area and playground. It has no imposing statues or flower beds. The layout is informal and functional. What does it tell us about society?
	Plantings shape space. These live oaks create an shaded entrance road at Retreat Plantation on St. Simons Island and make a powerful statement about the owners. Similar plantings can be found all around the Southeast.