Kpando Archaeological Project, Ghana

Type of Opportunity: Field School

Where: Kpando- Volta Region, Ghana

When: Winter Break session: January 3-22, 2005. Summer session: June 1-22, 2005

Cost: $2000

Contact Information: Wazi Apoh at the Department of Anthropology, Binghamton University
Binghamton, NY 13902 USA
Phone: 607-7243134
Fax: 607-777-2477
Email: rapoh1@binghamton.edu
Web site: http://bingweb.binghamton.edu/~rapoh1/

The Kpando Archaeological project is a multidisciplinary project including the archaeological, archival, historical and ethnographic investigation of Kpando. The aim of this research is investigate how expanding trans-Atlantic trade, colonial capitalism and monetization affected and restructured social, cultural and economic practices of the people of Kpando (Akpinis). Oral history data, ethnographic references, and archaeological excavation will be undertaken to achieve this aim. Participants will also have the opportunity to join several sight seeing tours of the local area.

The Kpando Archaeological project will focus its research on the lives of the Kpando from the 17th century to the 20th century. This period of history includes pre-colonial and colonial periods reflecting shifting processes of migration, trading, slavery, missionization and colonialism within the Kpando. To illustrate these changes, two archaeological excavations will be during this project: a pre-colonial early Kpando settlement at Old-Aziave and the Kpando-Todzi colonial settlement.

In addition to field excavations, archival and oral history research will be undertaken. Library and archival documentary research will include the examination of Memoirs, dairies, court documents, journals, and trade and public records on British and German colonial activities in Togoland and the Gold Coast. Colonial maps will also be examined for references to the location and layouts of colonial residences at Kpando-Todzi. Oral historical and ethnographic investigations will be achieved through interviews among the paramount chief of Kpando, the sub-chiefs, elders, and knowledgeable informants in the research area.

Minimum stay for project participants is three weeks. All participants of this project are required to be over 18 years of age, have some archaeological experience, and be in good physical condition. Furthermore, a valid passport and visa (tourist visa) is required. Health risks in Ghana include malaria, intestinal disorders, sun exposure, and culture shock. Please consult your doctor to determine what appropriate malaria medications are needed.

Cost for the three week program is $2000. This fee includes coversaccomodation, transportation, equipment, and food for duration of each field session. This fee does not include airfare, adding another $1000-$1800.

Accomodations for the project include two project guest houses within proximity in the center of Kpando town. Food will be prepared by an experienced project cook. Diet will consist of delicious Ghanaian and continental dishes, including rice, beans, bread, meat, fish, and a wide variety of fruits and vegetables.

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