Laboratory Methods
Lab work begins with washing all recovered artifacts. A provenience number, based on the context of the artifact (i.e., surface or subsurface), is assigned to each positive shovel test location or surface collection area. Within each provenience, each individual artifact or artifact class is then assigned a number. Artifacts are cataloged based on specific morphological characteristics such as material in the case of lithics, and decoration and temper type in the case of prehistoric ceramics. Table 2 shows the temper categories utilized. Artifact descriptions, counts, and weights are recorded. All diagnostic and cross-mended artifacts are labeled with a solution of Acryloid B-72 and acid free permanent ink.
Prehistoric ceramics and diagnostic stone tools were compared with established type descriptions in an attempt to ascertain cultural and temporal associations for these artifacts. References consulted include Coe (1964), Hargrove and Eastman (1997), Herbert (1999, 2003), Herbert and Mathis (1996), and Ward and Davis (1999). Table 3 presents examples of relevant prehistoric ceramic types.
Historic artifacts were identified by color, material of manufacture (e.g., ceramic), type (e.g., slipware), form (e.g., bowl, plate), method of manufacture (e.g., molded), production date span (e.g., 1780-1820), and intended function (e.g., tableware). Published type descriptions were used for identification of all diagnostic artifacts. Ceramics were categorized using Brown (1982), Miller (1980, 1991), Noël Hume (1969a), and South (1977). Recovery of temporally diagnostic ceramics allowed for calculation Mean Ceramic Dates (average dates of production), following procedures developed by South (1977) and Carlson (1983). In artifact discussions, we used South Inventory Pattern functional categories (South 1977) to further distinguish artifact groups.
At the conclusion of this project, all project related material, including field notes, artifacts, and project maps, will be prepared for curation based on standards set forth in 36 CFR 79 (Curation of Federally Owned and Administered Archaeological Collections: Final Rule) and in the OSA curation guidelines. These standards and guidelines require that all project-related material be placed in archivally stable storage bags and boxes. Upon acceptance of the final project report by the SHPO, the project material will be submitted to OSA for permanent curation.
