Middle Caddoan Period Archaeology in the Upper Sulphur River Basin

Abstract

Middle Caddoan period archaeological sites in the upper Sulphur River basin are rare, by contrast with the lower Sulphur River area, and probably the best-known site of this age in the upper part of the basin is the Hurricane Hill site (41HP106). The site is located on a high upland landform, at the Cooper Lake dam, overlooking the wide valley of the South Sulphur River. The Hurricane Hill Middle Caddoan component occurs mainly on the South Rise, a natural sand-covered rise on the crest of the uplands. However, at least one burial and several pit features associated with the component occur 20-50 meters away on the Southwest Rise. The component dates from ca. AD I 250-1375, based on one archeomagnetic date of A.D. 1300 ± 50 from a central hearth, and six calibrated radiocarbon dates from feature and structural contexts. The four Middle Caddoan period adult burials were in extended supine position, and did not contain associated grave goods.