Meta-Materiality

Historical markers across America marginalize the histories of traditionally underrepresented groups. The historical markers of the greater Reno, Nevada area represent the state of historical markers across the country. As historical markers cement histories into and onto landscapes, they become meta-material cultural objects. By infusing history and landscape, historical markers influence public understandings of the past and are central to placemaking. Archaeologists must engage with public historical narratives to ensure that representations of the past are inclusive and accurate. Because historical markers are an existing and accepted form of public history, they are an ideal way to begin sharing more complete narratives of the past.