A new approach to the storage of human skeletal remains

Abstract

There are many collections of human skeletal remains around the world, and information from a study undertaken as part of an MA thesis suggests that they are stored to varying standards. The examination of present packaging systems and practice within the UK highlighted problem areas in the storage and handling of osteological collections. An effective storage system, together with guidelines for handling and long‐term monitoring, could provide sustainable access to the collections. This is particularly important for osteological collections that are frequently accessed for research. An in‐depth study of one collection held at York Archaeological Trust, York, UK, has highlighted some of the problems that can result in poor preservation of skeletal material. Leading from this study, a box that protects, supports and ensures the safety of the human skeletal material was designed and produced. The first prototype was used when a number of human bones was sent for exhibition in Iceland. The final design is currently being introduced at the University of Durham's (Durham, UK) osteological collection. The storage box is suitable for frequently consulted, high‐profile and rare human skeletal remains, although may not be realistic for large collections.