Archaeological Survey for a Proposed Landslide Correction on SR 66, 0.51 km East of SR 545 in Perry County, Indiana

Abstract

At the request of the Indiana Department of Transportation, the Glenn A. Black Laboratory of Archaeology, Indiana University (GBL) conducted Phase Ia archaeological reconnaissance survey for a proposed landslide correction on SR 66, 0.51 km east of SR 545, in Perry County, Indiana. The project area slide limits are restricted to the north side of SR 66 within the existing right-of-way. Existing right-of-way on the south side of SR 66 is bordered by the Southern Railway track. The purposes of survey were 1) to identify and document all cultural resources in the project area, 2) to evaluate any sites found with regard to their eligibility for inclusion on the National Register of Historic Places (NRHP) and the Indiana Register of Historic Sites and Structures (IRHSS), and 3) to make recommendations for the protection of significant and potentially significant sites. A reconnaissance of the project area was conducted on May 8, 2001 by GBL Archaeologist Melody Pope. At this time it was determined that an archaeological survey would not be necessary for the project area, which is located on a steep (40-70 degree) south facing slope of Troy Ridge that extends down to the floodplain of the Ohio River. The DHPA does not require survey in areas with surface slope greater than 25 degrees. In a phone conversation with INDOT project contact Tia Agnew, the GBL was informed that impact to the area would occur principally on the north side of SR 66. Since the entire project area is on a steep slope, field survey is not required. Cultural resource clearance is recommended for the project area provided that all earth-moving activities are restricted to the currently defined project area boundaries.