Investigating the Function of an Archaic-Period Earthwork Using Microartifacts

Abstract

The functions of Archaic-period mounds in the Lower Mississippi River valley are generally poorly understood. Poverty Point's Mound C provides a unique opportunity to examine the function of one Late Archaic mound. Archaeological excavation of Mound C revealed a complex construction sequence consisting of numerous, thin, flat-topped construction stages. The presence of cultural features on the surfaces of some stages suggests these mound stage summits were used for cultural activities. The nearly complete absence of macroartifacts, however, makes it difficult to discern the types of activities undertaken on these surfaces. Microartifacts from the surfaces of these construction platforms provide an alternative perspective on the nature of activities associated with this earthwork. The analysis of microartifacts from Mound C, coupled with the limited number of macroartifacts, suggests that individual mound stage summits were intentionally cleaned prior to the addition of subsequent construction stages. The Mound C microartifact assemblages further indicate that this architectural feature was used unlike any other previously excavated context at Poverty Point.