"The purpose of this study is simply to provide the information necessary for the proper interpretation of kiln-fired clay bricks found at archaeological sites. Bricks made of adobe, cement, or sand-lime are not included. Much of the emphasis has been placed on manufacturing techniques and the traces these processes leave behind, because they are a rich source of information that has been ignored by archaeologists. Brand names or trademarks found on some bricks have also been researched. This has led to the surprising conclusion that during the nineteenth century large quantities of firebricks were imported into the Pacific Northwest from England and Scotland. Size, color, and composition of bricks have also been examined. Extensive historical evidence as well as data from several archaeological sites complete the picture of an early and vigorous industry in the Pacific Northwest."--Preface.