2017 Gidusko, Kevin and Bernard K. Means

Society for Historical Archaeology Annual Conference

Abstract: Three-dimensional (3D) modeling and printing are cutting-edge applications at the frontiers of archaeological data collection and dissemination. Recent advances in 3D modeling, coupled with reduced costs, provides broad access to these technologies, making them increasingly viable tools for archaeologists to share information not only with each other, but also with the public. Two case studies representing this type of public archaeology can be found in the separate efforts currently undertaken by the Virginia Commonwealth University’s Virtual Curation Laboratory and the Florida Public Archaeology Network. These efforts include laser scanning and photogrammetric rendering of artifacts or archaeological sites for public consumption, providing educational and research opportunities in 3D technology for archaeology students, and the integration of both 3D digital models and 3D printed replicas in educational and public outreach.

2016 Gidusko, Kevin

“Future Archaeology: Drones and Photogrammetry in the Archaeologist’s Toolkit.” Article. Florida Historical Society Archaeological Institute’s Adventures in Florida Archaeology.

2016 Gidusko, Kevin

University of Central Florida Graduate Research Forum

Abstract: Historic cemeteries are among the most threatened cultural resources in Florida. In 1999, a state task force concluded the possibility of over 6,700 undocumented cemeteries. Since then, documentation has been slow to list cemeteries in the Florida Master Site File, and thousands of undocumented cemeteries are threatened with permanent loss due to neglect and development. One solution to the documentation and long-term curation of historic cemetery data is the use of unmanned aerial vehicles (UAV) and terrestrial-based photogrammetric techniques. While photogrammetric methods have been developed over several decades, the ability to digitally render photographic data in three dimensional models at a high resolution and with accurate spatial information is a relatively new technique. Photogrammetry offers a less expensive, more streamlined data collection and processing workflow than traditional time-intensive field recording. The purpose of this research is to develop a process for utilizing terrestrial and UAV techniques to record, analyze, and interpret grave markers in historic cemeteries. Two cemeteries were utilized for this project that represent variable site conditions: Greenwood Cemetery (Orlando) and St. Luke’s Cemetery (Merritt Island). Data collection was performed using a UAV (DJI Phantom 3 Advanced) and digital camera for overall site photographs and close-up photographs of grave markers. Results indicate that a number of site conditions must be considered prior to imagery recording: open or heavy tree cover, time of day, and grave marker surface texture and color. Furthermore, best practices for photogrammetry documentation, curation, and analysis of cemetery data will be further discussed.