Archaeological Investigations at Sites 45-OK-287 and 45-OK-288, Chief Joseph Dam Project, Washington.
Abstract
Site 45-OK-287/288 is located on a narrow terrace at the foot of a steep slope on tne right bank of Rufus Woods Lake (Columbia River) 110 m upstream from River Mile 568. The site lies in an Upper Sonoran life zone. In 1979 the University of Washington excavated 230 sq m of site volume for the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, Seattle District, as part of a mitigation program associated with adding 10 ft to the operating level behind Chief Joseph Dam. Systematic random sampling using 1 x 1x 0.1-m collection units in 1 x1, 1 x 2, or 2 x 2 m cells disclosed six prehistoric components contained in overbank, colluvial and aeolian deposits. The first occupation, dated prior to 4800 B.P., is represented primarily by a deflated artifact concentration located just above basal river cobbles. The second occupation found in sands and silts of early overbank deposits is dated by two radiocarbon age determinations to 4800-4400 B.P. These two zones represent Kartar Phase components comparable to late Vantage and Cascade Phase age ocupations elsewhere on the Plateau. They are characterized by greater use of argillite, lanceolate and stemmed projectile point forms, and cobble derived artifacts manufactured form on-site river gravels. The site functioned as a central base camp for hunting during this period.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Jan 01, 1984
- Accession Number
- ADA160785
Entities
People
- C. J. Miss
- D. Sammons-lohse
- N. A. Stenholm
- S. K. Campbell
- S. Livingston
Organizations
- University of Washington