Paaliup Qarmangit 1 site geoarchaeology: Taphonomy of a Thule‐Inuit semi‐subterranean dwelling in a periglacial context in northeastern Hudson Bay

Abstract

AbstractA multidisciplinary geoarchaeological investigation was performed at Paaliup Qarmangit 1 site (JjGj‐14), located in a valley affected by periglacial processes in Nunavik, Canada. A taphonomic approach was carried out to document site formation processes on the site of a single‐family semi‐subterranean winter Thule‐Inuit house. Off‐site geomorphological and stratigraphical analyses enabled us to reconstruct the sedimentary environment in the valley since the last glaciation. Valley shoreline sediments deposited during the marine regression were reworked by eolian, runoff, and periglacial processes. The site was first used by Dorset people after 143‐327 cal A.D. and then by the Thule‐Inuit between 1317–1413 cal A.D. and 1466–1642 cal A.D. Strategic features of the site, such as the availability of building material, food, and water resources may explain its sucessive use by two different cultures. On‐site, stratigraphical, micromorphological, and macrofossil analyses showed the predominance of niveo‐eolian and nivation processes in landscape and site formations. The archaeological record reveals the action of niveo‐eolian processes throughout the Medieval Climatic Optimum and the Little Ice Age, likely due to local factors, site location, and the bowl‐shape of the semi‐subterranean house. Macrofossil data and radiocarbon dating indicate postdepositional natural and/or anthropogenic reworking of Dorset artefacts.