Investigating the weaning process in past populations

Area of Science:

• Paleopathology
• Bioarchaeology
• Paleodemography

Background:

• 19th-century St. Thomas' Anglican churchyard in Belleville, Ontario, Canada, contains a significant infant skeletal collection (n=149).
• High-quality parish records (1821-1874) document infant interments, providing valuable historical demographic data.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate infant feeding behaviors, including breastfeeding and weaning patterns, in a 19th-century Canadian population.
• To demonstrate the utility of combining historical demographic data with stable isotope analysis for reconstructing past infant diets.

Main Methods:

• Stable nitrogen isotope analysis of infant skeletal remains to assess dietary protein sources.
• Analysis of historical parish records to establish demographic context and infant mortality patterns.

Main Results:

• Evidence suggests extended nursing for approximately 14 months.
• Introduction of non-breast milk foods occurred around 5 months of age.
• Significant variation in breastfeeding and weaning behaviors was observed among infants.

Conclusions:

• It is feasible to reconstruct detailed weaning processes in past populations using integrated skeletal and documentary data.
• This study moves beyond simple weaning age to explore the complexities of infant feeding transitions in historical contexts.