Archaeological Subsurface Investigations at the Swan's Landing Site (12Hr304), Harrison County, Indiana

Abstract

Archaeological data recovery and geomorphological investigations were conducted during the summer of 1994 on the inland floodplain ridge portion of the Swan's Landing Archaeological Site (12Hr304). Two 2 m by 2 m test units (Units 3C and 3D) and one 2 m by 1 m unit (Unit 3E) were excavated. Limited hand-augering was also conducted. Magnetic survey was conducted on one 10 m by 10 m block, one 10 m by 20 m block, and one 5 m by 5 m block. The results of the magnetireconnaissanc.e3 were inconclusive. A total of approximately 10 m of cultural deposits were excavated. These investigations revealed approximately 1 m of stratified deposits of varied density attributable to the early Kirk Period. One or two primary occupation surfaces appear to be represented. Diagnostic projectile points recovered are attributable to the Pine Tree Corner Notched variant of the Kirk Corner Notched type. Two AMS assays indicate that the site was occupied in the late tenth millenium B.P.i Portions of at least 3 discreet "chipping stations" were encountered. Geomorphological investigations have confirmed previous interpretations that penecontemporary living surfaces are present in two distinct geomorphological contexts on two adjoining floodplain ridges. The 1994 investigations also support previous interpretations that the site represents a specialized lithic tool manufacturing or "Gearing Up" locale rather than a domestic base camp.