Mior, A. 2008. The Difficulties, Utilization, Limitations and Potential of a Database Format Based on Primary and Secondary Historical Sources, A Case Study of Shipwrecks and Stranding Events at Sable Island, Nova Scotia, Canada. M.MA. (Masters of Maritime Archaeology) Thesis, Flinders University, Adelaide, Australia.

Summary: The large number of shipwrecks and loss of life at Sable Island earned it a reputation as the “Graveyard of the Atlantic” and led to the construction and staffing of Sable Island Humane Establishment in 1801. Although the island has an important role in maritime history and lore, there have been no significant archaeological investigations conducted on Sable. Aaron Mior found that the information available for study consists of primary and secondary historical sources which when combined suggest many discrepancies and gaps in the time period assessed. Aaron Mior’s thesis creates a research tool in a database format detailing the shipwreck and stranding events at Sable Island, incorporating the historical sources available to the researcher. These databases will allow future research to begin from a highly detailed model which can be used for both historical and archaeological studies. This thesis also analyzes the reliability and accuracy of the historical sources available. The utilization of the data focuses on investigating a) statements made in the historical sources regarding when, and under what conditions, shipwrecks were most likely to occur; b) the influence of mariner’s knowledge regarding the island in relation to the potential of shipwreck events; and c) the variability of site formation processes. Regarding the latter, this thesis investigates the potential of utilizing maritime archaeological theories for interpretations when only historical data are available to the researcher. This thesis also outlines the limitations and potential of a database when only historical data are available for study, and, consequently, the importance of archaeological study even where extensive historical sources are available.

Note: In archaeology, the term Site Formation Processes refers to the events that created and affected an archaeological site after its creation. Two classes of formation processes are recognized: culturally created (C-transforms, e.g. purposeful and accidental discard of objects, souvenir collecting, burning and demolition of structures at the site); and naturally created (N-transforms, e.g. erosion, burial by drifting sand, vegetation growth, invertebrate activity, or normal decay).