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Archaeology of New York State Cheese Factories (1860s-1890s)

The archaeology of cheese (as funny as that may sound) is a novel way in which to explore an industry that spread like wildfire across the northern tier of states, especially New York, in the 1860s.

Archaeologist Jim Gibb, using period illustrations and the results of excavation of the Columbus Center Cheese Factory in Chenango County, New York, will join us to describe the rise of the industry in the early 1860s and its eventual concentration in just a few locations.  Jim will discuss the effects the reorganization of the industry had on thousands of dairy farms.  He will also identify the culprit responsible for the demise of small factories and the abandonment of many of New York State's dairy farms in the 1890s.  As this will be a virtual presentation, Jim encourages participants to supply their own cheese and beverages of choice.

Register with an email address to receive a link to join the online event.

If you require an ASL interpreter or other accommodation for this event, please contact us at virtualservices@stmalib.org with as much notice as possible, but no later than five business days before the event date.

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