Myers, Jeffery A. (Glenn A. Black Laboratory of Archaeology, Indiana University)
THE CUTRIGHT RAMP SITE (12 M0 173)
The Glenn A. Black Laboratory of Archaeology (Indiana University) is conducting
test excavations at five Archaic Period sites at Lake Monroe during 1986-87. Investigations
were undertaken by contract arrangement with the Indiana Department of Natural
Resources in order to assess site significance for potential nomination to the
National Register of Historic Places. Prior recommendations for testing, continuing
erosion, discovery of eroding features exposed in shoreline banks and evidence
of illegal pot-hunting prompted the site investigations. Hand excavation of three
foot wide trenches examined 3-5% of each site area to determine the presence of
subplowzone archaeological contexts.
The Cutright Ramp Site (12 Mo 173) contained abundant Middle-Late Archaic artifacts
but was confined to the plowzone. The Pinegrove Site (12 Mo 183) revealed moderate
density of occupational debris but artifacts were recovered up to .6 foot below
the plowzone. Three rock clusters, a large ash stained area and a cache of two
nutstones and a grooved axe indicated intact features but "structural pits" could
not be defined due to soil conditions. Projectile points were side-notched and
stemmed Late Archaic types. The Paynetown Campground site (12 Mo 1983) contained
very dense cultural materials derived from its heavy Middle-Late Archaic occupation.
Numerous pit features were identified at the base of a midden which extends up
to .7 foot below the plowzone. Sites at Moores Creek picnic area and at Fairfax
Ramp have not yet been investigated. It is anticipated that site 12 Mo 193 and
possibly 12 Mo 183 are eligible for nomination to the National Register of Historic
Places. Recommendations for additional excavations and for protective measures
will be presented to Indiana Department of Natural Resources. Project completion
is scheduled for July 1, 1987.
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