Underwater Archaeology: Voices from Coaybay

At the Museum | Farrand Auditorium

Deep within a tropical forest in the Dominican Republic is a unique heritage site, Manantial de la Aleta. It consists of a cenote (a water-filled limestone sinkhole) used as an offering site by Taíno ancestors for some five centuries. In this free public lecture presented by the Santa Barbara County Archaeological Society, retired California State Parks Senior State Archaeologist John W. Foster, M.A., will describe his work with a team from Indiana University that carried out an extensive underwater study of the site from 1996 to 1998 in collaboration with Taíno heritage experts and National Park specialists. Preservation conditions were incredible and many unique artifacts were documented. Assisted by the native voices recorded by a humble priest from 1494 to 1498, the team was able to understand the special significance of Manantial de la Aleta, and give voice to those ancient ancestors. Their study documented the only known cenote from the Taíno culture area.

No tickets or reservations required, but it is recommended to arrive a little early to ensure a seat. For questions about the Santa Barbara County Archaeological Society or the upcoming meetings, please contact SBCAS President Glenn Russell, Ph.D., by email.

Artifact photos by John W. Foster