Grenada Public Archaeology Network (GPAN)

Preserving Our Past, Empowering Our Communities

Status: Official Non-Governmental Organization (Incorporated 2025)
Headquarters: St. George’s, Grenada


Who We Are

The Grenada Public Archaeology Network (GPAN) is the premier heritage management organization in the tri-island state, dedicated to documenting and protecting Grenada’s rich cultural legacy.

Originally conceived through a series of pilot projects beginning in 2011, GPAN was incorporated as an official NGO in 2025. We operate on a model of "Citizen Science," moving beyond the traditional academic model of foreign field schools to train local community members—specifically youth and young adults—to become the primary stewards of their history.

Our operational structure is inspired by successful public archaeology networks in Florida (FPAN) and the Dutch Caribbean (SABARC, SIMARC), bridging the gap between government, developers, and local communities.

OUR MISSION

To Improve Awareness

We educate the public about the value of Grenada’s pre-Columbian and historical resources to combat looting, vandalism, and the loss of oral history.

To Build Capacity

We expose youth and young adults to rigorous scientific inquiry, critical thinking, and archaeological methods, creating a local workforce skilled in heritage management.

To Protect Heritage

We maintain a network of local experts to report archaeological finds, conduct impact assessments, and monitor threatened sites in the face of climate change and development.



Why GPAN Matters

Grenada’s coastline holds the material record of over 2,000 years of human history. However, this heritage is under immediate threat.

Our History: The Foundational Projects

GPAN evolved from three distinct community archaeology projects. These "proof of concept" initiatives have laid the groundwork for our permanent regional chapters.


SGCAP Project

St. George’s Chapter

Origins: SGCAP (2011–2012)

The pilot prototype funded by the US Embassy. Students investigated the St. John’s River site in Queen's Park, recovering significant ceramics demonstrating a transition between Saladoid and Troumassoid cultures (AD 600–900).

LCAP Project

St. David Chapter

Origins: LCAP (2020)

Partnering with Range Developments, this project trained young adults to rescue data from resort construction. The team investigated Lance Pere Bay (GREN-D-25), identifying a settlement span from AD 245 to 1665.

SCHAP Project

St. Patrick Chapter

Origins: SCHAP (2021–2022)

Supported by UNESCO, this project responded to the climate crisis at Sauteurs Bay. Participants conducted surveys identifying new site boundaries and demonstrated the power of community monitoring for at-risk coastal sites.

What We Do

GPAN offers a comprehensive suite of services and educational programs:

  • Training & Certification: Workshops on Caribbean history, ceramic typologies, stratigraphy, and legal frameworks.
  • Field Operations: Professional pedestrian survey, GPS mapping, shovel-testing, and salvage excavation.
  • Site Management: Consulting on the preservation of tangible heritage and the creation of interpretive signage.
  • Public Outreach: Guided heritage tours and community town halls to share research results.

The Vision

With our 2025 incorporation, GPAN is moving from ad-hoc projects to permanent sustainability. Our goal is to maintain active chapters in St. George, St. David, and St. Patrick, acting as the bridge between local communities, the Grenada National Museum, and government ministries.


Join us in securing Grenada’s past for its future.

Contact

For further information about GPAN, please contact:


Director: Jonathan Hanna, Ph.D.

Email: [email protected]