The Reconstructed Past: Reconstructions in the Public Interpretation of Archaeology and History - Hardcover

The Reconstructed Past is a very affordable reference, which will be of great interest to public archaeologists, historical interpreters, historic site managers, and anyone involved in reconstructions.--David J. Cooper, Grand Portage National Monument, National Park Service

For anyone who works in the fields of archaeology, historic presentation, and public education, this book has useful lessons on the benefits and pitfalls associated with reconstructions.--Canadian Journal of Archaeology

Because this book is written without jargon and tells behind-the-scenes stories about people and places, The Reconstructed Past will benefit both students and professionals. The case studies and the history of applied archeology are appropriate for university or college classrooms, particularly method and theory classes. The book's themese would also interest professionals making decisions about site interpretation. The provocative case studies illuminate the dilemma of reconstruction.--Crm: The Journal Of Heritage Stewardship

If you wanted to put a single volume in front of a beginning public historian or archaeologist about the perils of a singular aspect of their chosen professions, this collection of articles would be a good start.--Historic Environment

The Reconstructed Past is a thoughtful, varied collection of articles, and collectively, they address many of the preservation issues which must underlie all of public archaeology.--Archaeology.About.Com

While this entire volume is engaging, two contributions are of particular interest to those involved with industrial archaeology. Linebaugh's article on Roland Wells Robbins gives a very in-depth and fascinating view of the reconstruction of the Saugus Iron Works, including plans and excavation photos from original fieldwork. The article by Blockley is devoted to the pragmatic and ethical complexities of the reconstruction and preservation of large-scale industrial sites.--Industrial Archeology

John H. Jameson, Jr. is a senior archaeologist with the National Park Service's Southeast Archaeological Center in Tallahassee, Florida. A recognized leader in public archaeology, he is a key player in the development of training courses for park rangers and archaeologists in the effective interpretation of archaeological resources.