Archaeology & Architectural Fragments Intern in Newport

The Archaeology & Architectural Fragments Intern plays an integral role in inventorying, organizing, researching, and describing archaeological objects and architectural fragments found at Newport Restoration Foundation properties. These items include architectural fragments and unearthed objects of material culture. This is a two phased project: one phase may include “in the field work” documenting architectural elements in situ at NRF restoration sites and the second phase includes organizing, rehousing, describing, and—if time permits—research into the objects currently housed at Rough Point Museum. The intern’s work will help make this collection more accessible to NRF stakeholders, including NRF employees, researchers, students, and the community at large. This is a project-based position, with up to 20 hours per week (depending on the scheduling needs of the candidates and NRF) for a period of 10 weeks. This position is part of a larger phased project to rehouse, catalog, and improve accessibility to NRF’s archaeological and archival collections.

About the project: The NRF Archives consist of collections ranging in date from 1736 to the present (although this project may move that initial date back). The bulk of the collections are NRF’s institutional records. These records document the central role NRF played in shaping Newport during a period of urban redevelopment in the late 1960s and 1970s. Additionally, the archives house personal papers related to Doris Duke, Newport families, and the Rough Point Mansion. The types of media contained in the archives include architectural drawings, born digital records, business records, correspondence, and photographs. It is the long-term goal of NRF to arrange and describe its archives into distinct collections that can be better accessed both internally and by the public. Between 2006 and 2012, NRF collaborated with Salve Regina University on a series of digs to better understand the lived experience of the people who lived in what is now 12, 14, and 16 Dennison Street and 413 and 415 Thames Street. Some of the found objects have been catalogued, but most have not. These boxes of materials and objects are currently housed at Rough Point Museum. NRF also has a large collection of architectural fragments removed from NRF properties that are currently housed at Rough Point Museum. NRF is also in the process of documenting and recording in situ architectural elements across NRF preservation properties, for the ongoing preservation and protection of these materials.

Specific Responsibilities: The Archaeology Intern will work with the NRF Collections team under the guidance of the Archivist and will work closely with the Collections & Exhibitions Manager and the Preservation Projects Manager.

• Inventory and organize archaeological items, including previously catalogued items, by original found locations
• Catalogue items into collections management database including photography of individual and groups of objects
• Properly rehouse items in archival boxes and materials
• Research into individual items or groups of items and how they may relate to the history of dig site and location.
• Report findings through written documentation, including source material and other related images
• Contribute content (including participating in video content) to be shared across NRF communications platforms

Qualifications: Undergraduate degree; graduate degree (or working towards a graduate degree) in a relevant field (history, art history, archaeology, cultural heritage, preservation, museum studies, conservation, etc.) Coursework in archaeology, preservation, museum studies, cultural studies, colonization, etc. (familiarity with identifying archaeological items preferred) Detail-oriented, organized, and has the demonstrated ability to work independently Excellent communications skills; can communicate effectively with people from a wide variety of backgrounds and experiences (colleagues and other stakeholders) A team player who is capable of collaborating across NRF departments.

The job description is meant to outline the role, but not define potential candidates. If you do not meet all the qualifications, but are enthusiastic about the work of NRF and this position, please apply! Interested candidates should submit a brief cover letter and résumé to archivist@newportrestoration.org. EOE. Applications will be accepted on a rolling basis, with an anticipated closing date of April 1.