Anthropology department celebrates 50 years of discovery

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Half a century after its official introduction, McMaster's anthropology department celebrates a legacy of research and transformation

In 2024, the department of anthropology at McMaster celebrated its 50th anniversary. To mark the occasion, the department welcomed keynote speakers to explore historical connections and reflect on how the discipline has changed and evolved. Four colloquia were held during the winter 2024 term and the main celebration took place from Sept. 20 to 21, 2024.

Although McMaster University first opened in 1887, it was not until 1974 that anthropology was officially welcomed to McMaster as its very own department.

Professor Andrew Roddick, the chair of the department of anthropology, explained that anthropology was originally a subject within the sociology department, not quite able to set itself apart. "The anthropology department had a series of fits and starts before it became formalised," said Roddick.

Despite a rough start, the legacy of anthropology at McMaster is rich. Roddick noted that the 50th anniversary was an opportunity to learn a lot about the department's history.

“We’ve learned a lot about some of those connections back to prominent anthropologists, including Franz Boaz. We even had some of his students working here in the 1970s,” said Roddick.

Anthropology at McMaster has grown significantly over the last 50 years, becoming both a dynamic and adaptive department. Over the last five to 10 years, Roddick has seen an influx of many young instructors into the department. Their teaching and research methods have been modernised, propelling the department of anthropology in an upwards direction.

Roddick explained that the disciplines of anthropology at McMaster now range from societal issues such as contemporary politics to very scientific topics such as ancient DNA and biological anthropology. “There is a little bit for everybody in anthropology," said Roddick.

There is a little bit for everybody in anthropology.

Dr. Andrew Roddick, Department Chair
Anthropology Department, McMaster University

2024 was packed with celebrations, including talks from alumni and former faculty and the creation of an anthropology bursary.

Additionally, Roddick and his team put together a 50th-anniversary virtual yearbook that aims to unite the community in celebration. The anthropology department's 50th anniversary webpage states, "the virtual yearbook serves as a repository for our "memory work" and highlights our lived experiences." While official celebrations are over, information can still be found on the department's website.

Roddick expressed that the celebrations culminated in a capstone event on Sept. 20 and 21, 2024, featuring prominent anthropologist Professor Susan Erikson from Simon Fraser University. Erikson gave an impactful keynote speech on the changing nature of anthropology, covering not only the rich history of anthropology within the walls of McMaster but also Canada as a whole.

Additionally, "the event offered lab tours and lots of opportunities for alumni to gather and reflect on memories of the department," said Roddick. The lab tours provided a chance for alumni to see the department’s current facilities, allowing them to see how their old school has evolved and changed over time. Alumni were given an opportunity to reconnect with their peers sharing both their experiences and appreciation for anthropology.

2024 was an important milestone for the McMaster anthropology department. It was a time for celebration and a time to reflect on the past and plan for the future. Roddick and his team have been extremely proud to celebrate and promote the rich history of anthropology at McMaster University and hope for its continued growth.

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