An Archaeological Study Of Siyu Old Town On The North Coast Of Kenya From The 9Th Century Up To The 19Th Century Ad: An Exchange Systems Perspective

Abstract

This study was an archaeological investigation into the early settlement of the ancient town of Siyu. The objectives of the study were to determine the strategic factors that influenced initial settlements and growth of Siyu, determine the exchange system and resource base, and establish the sequence of occupation at the site. To achieve these objectives, the study employed site survey, excavation and analysis of excavated materials. The findings indicate that abundant marine resources, a navigable creek and emergent sand dunes influenced early settlements at Siyu. The study also established that Siyu did not make her own pottery but procured it through exchange. Local pottery bears Early Iron Ware and Tana Tradition affinities that have been reported elsewhere along the eastern Africa coast. This implies an exchange network that linked Siyu to known centres such as Shanga, Pate and Manda and sites on the mainland. It was also established that Siyu was linked to an international exchange system that brought in imported merchandise such as ceramics, beads, cotton cloth and dates from China, Arabia, India and Europe. These were in exchange for items such as mangrove, ivory and silk. The growth of exchange systems between Siyu and the rest of the world was not limited to exchange of merchandise but exchange of ideas on Islamic faith and sociopolitical order that saw Siyu emerge as a strong city-state. Using archaeological evidence, the study has established four periods of occupation of Siyu between the 9th and 19th century. Mud and thatch houses were predominant during Period I with the introduction of stone houses in the terminal phase. Cattle were brought to Siyu during period II that lasted from the 11th to the 13th century. Period III lasted between the 13th and the 16th century. This was the industrial age that saw Siyu‟s wealth thrive through her textile industry, masonry and carpentry. Finally, Period IV is the period of decline that is associated with the coming of foreign political powers. Turkey, Portugal and Zanzibar orchestrated the decline of Siyu‟s political power, wealth and population at the close of the 19th century. In conclusion, the study has met its objectives by determining the factors that influenced early settlements, and the exchange systems that characterized Siyu's economy. Finally, the study has determined the sequence of occupations at Siyu. The study recommends further investigations at the site to provide chronometric dates and locate precise sources of local pottery and other ceramics.