KNOW WHERE AN ARCHAEOLOGICAL SITE IS? DOES YOUR FAMILY HAVE STORIES ATTACHED TO HEIRLOOM OBJECTS? OUR NEW RESEARCHER WANTS TO TALK TO YOU!
Ethan Karnes, a proud West Virginia native and a graduate of Marshall University, is now conducting research at the museum! Ethan is currently pursuing a Ph.D. in the Anthropology Program at George Washington University, and he’s bringing a wealth of knowledge and ton of experience to the team.
As an Anthropologist/Archaeologist, Ethan’s work has taken him all over the globe. He has previously worked at the Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History and has excavated at UNESCO World Heritage Sites. But now, his current work has brought him much closer to home to study how family memories, coal mining and the legacies of violence in Appalachia are communicated through heirlooms and other objects you might have right in your own home.
This history has been written out of textbooks, and the memory of the Mine Wars has reemerged as the material remains of conflict, spent bullets, personal effects, and check tags have been unearthed. Ethan’s research project places a spotlight on these artifacts, but also extends to the everyday items you use to create, pass on, and “unearth” memories.
Do you still cherish your grandfathers mining hat?
Have you inherited a pocket watch or a treasured photo album?
Are you planning on breaking out your grandmothers recipe book as the holidays approach?
Perhaps you’re an avid collector of antiques or artifacts?
Ethan would like to invite you and your family to share stories, documents, photos, films, heirlooms and other important artifacts connected to life in the coalfields. We'd love to hear your story and help you preserve your family's legacy.
Ethan's expertise and dedication make him a valuable asset to have around the museum. We look forward to the outstanding contributions his research will bring!
