Submitted by Anonymous on Sun, 08/03/2008 - 15:24
Forums
Nuvuk Archaeology Studies

Hello Mr. Kelly and Team!

 

I wanted to ask you, when excavating the remains, have you noticed any significant differences in the end result of decomposition with the bodies? I was wondering if the extreme weather caused any notable difference in the condition of the bones as opposed to old remains in warmer or even very hot climates?

Sun, 08/03/2008 - 21:14

Frank Kelley

Hi,
Thanks for reading the journal. Your questions are good ones. Up here, the human remains are down close to the permafrost layer. In general, things are pretty cold up here, down in the ground by the permafrost is even colder. So, human remains can be well preserved.
There have been burials that were intact as well as ones that were scattered. It depends on how much use the area had. On a few occasions, we have found animal tissue in addition to bone.
In comparision to other areas, there are a number of factors at work. Soils, water, temperature, .... acidic soils are the worst. It would be fun to do some experiments with different materials in the soil, as well as with different soils.
If you get a chance, consider joining the Live From IPY Event scheduled for tomorrow. We'll be presenting and sharing stories during a web-cast from here. Thanks again for sending along a question.
Frank