Eating in the Side Room: Food, Archaeology, and African American Identity

In Eating in the Side Room, Mark Warner uses archaeological evidence to demonstrate how African Americans in nineteenth-century Annapolis established identity in the face of racism and marginalization. He shows how their food choices separated them from white society, while also satisfying their need for autonomy. The paperback edition of the book was made possible by a grant from the National Endowment for the Humanities.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 200 pages
Publication date: 03 January 2023
Publisher: University Press of Florida

In his groundbreaking archaeological study, "Eating in the Side Room," Mark Warner explores the rich tapestry of African American foodways in nineteenth-century Annapolis, Maryland. Through meticulous analysis of food remains recovered from excavations in Annapolis and the Chesapeake, Warner sheds light on the remarkable ways in which African Americans forged their identity in the face of pervasive racism and marginalization. By delving into the meat purchasing habits of two African American families, the Maynards and the Burgesses, Warner unveils a nuanced understanding of how African Americans navigated a rapidly evolving mass consumer society while maintaining a distinct sense of self.

The side rooms where these families gathered to consume their meals served as not only a means of sustenance but also as a sanctuary from the oppressive forces of white society. These spaces allowed African Americans to assert their autonomy and resist the cultural pressures that sought to confine them. Warner argues that the independence practiced by African Americans during this period played a crucial role in shaping their children and grandchildren's ability to confront and overcome the enduring challenges of white oppression.

The paperback edition of "Eating in the Side Room" is a testament to the enduring impact of scholarly research and the power of cultural heritage. This publication was made possible through a Sustaining the Humanities through the American Rescue Plan grant from the National Endowment for the Humanities. Warner's work not only sheds light on the past but also contributes to our understanding of the ongoing struggle for racial equality and social justice.

In conclusion, "Eating in the Side Room" is a groundbreaking exploration of African American foodways in nineteenth-century Annapolis. Through meticulous analysis of archaeological data and a deep understanding of cultural context, Mark Warner offers a profound insight into the ways in which African Americans navigated a complex social landscape and forged their identity amidst adversity. This book is a valuable contribution to the field of archaeology and history, and it serves as a reminder of the enduring legacy of African American culture and resilience.

Dimension: 229 x 152 x 11 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780813080031