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Molly Morgan

Molly Morgan

Lecturer

Anthropology

CONTACT

mm92@rice.edu

WEBSITE(S)| Research Spotlight

SURF Mentoring

Potential projects/topics:

My research falls in the fields of archaeology and cultural heritage, and I work on the history of plantations and enslavement in Brazoria County, TX, the largest sugar producing region in 19th century Texas. This summer, I hope to continue a project involving a collection of firsthand observations, archival research, and land-owner testimonies about some of the largest plantations in the county and the ruins of plantation buildings still present on the properties. This information was collected and shared with me through the Brazosport Archaeological Society. This group would like to see their plantation records summarized and made accessible to the public, a process I have already started with research assistants in 2023-2024. The results of this work will take the form of digital humanities projects created through ArchGIS as part of a larger historical mapping project and StoryMap exhibit posted online.

To accomplish the goals of this project, several tasks need to be conducted. Plantation histories need to be revised for a public audience, and images compiled. The plantation records need to be georeferenced and added to the GIS project. Finally, when information on a plantation is collected and ready, public history presentation will take place and students will be involved in creating presentations and exhibits.

There is high potential for this work to continue following the 2024 SURF program.

For more information or examples of projects created by past students, please contact Dr. Molly Morgan at mm92@rice.edu.

Potential skills gained: Creation of Public History exhibits through StoryMap or other similar outlets, Engagement with Cultural Heritage site managers on 19th century Texas plantations, Experience documenting Archival Records and Images, Familiarity with Archaeological Documentation and Recording

Required qualifications: There are no required courses or skills! This is a great learning experience for students at any level. We’re here to provide you with all the training and guidance you would need. Students already skilled in these areas will have the chance to dig deeper through an engaged project in digital humanities.

Direct mentor: Faculty/P.I.

Research Areas

Molly Morgan is an archaeologist investigating the lives of enslaved people who lived and worked at regional plantations including Levi Jordan and Varner-Hogg in order to examine the historical context and legacies of slavery and how it is presented in public history. This work involves public archaeology through engagement with communities and local groups in Texas. She also works toward public history interpretations along with colleagues at the Texas Historical Commission, which manages these historic sites. This work offers experiential learning opportunities for undergraduate students in all parts of the process of archaeological research.