Figure 1: Perspective photos of the artifact. (Photos courtesy of the NYC Archaeological Repository.)
Wine and Temperance
Taryn Chung
This study follows the creation of the dark green glass bottle in 18th century Britain through the development of the early 19th century American temperance movement to present day reflections of the link between consumer and social patterns. Found in the 2011 excavation of the Wilson family’s home in present day Central Park, this artifact is a broken off bottom of a wine bottle. The bottle has a base diameter of 7.7 cm, includes an iron pontil mark, and has a rounded heel. It was most likely in use during the early 19th century, which coincided with the beginning of the American temperance movement, which began by advocating for moderation but then complete abstinence from alcohol.