Reconstructing aspects of the daily life in late 19th and early 20th-century Iceland: archaeoentomological analysis of the Vatnsfjörður Farm, NW Iceland

To better understand the daily lives and living conditions of late 19th and early 20th-century Icelandic farmers, archaeoentomological analyses were undertaken using sediment samples collected at the site of Vatnsfjörður, in the Westfjords. Used in a contextual and multidisciplinary analytical framework, the analysis of preserved insect remains from multiple archaeological contexts allowed the identification of domestic activities, including animal products and hay storage, house renovations, floor maintenance, and trade. The hygienic conditions within the buildings and of their occupants were also interpreted along with some elements of the local landscape. This study demonstrates the potential of archaeoentomology to contribute to a better understanding of daily life in Early Modern Iceland.