Physical Stratigraphy

Abstract

It is proposed to discuss the physical aspects of the stratigraphy before entering into a discussion of the cultural remains of the Cattle Point site. The reasons for this are manifold. First, the differentiation of the strata on a purely physical basis will give us some idea of the different occupations of the site. Second, the widely differing nature of the layers offers some opportunity of dating the cultural remains in terms of strata which show time and content differences. Third, the shell and animal remains of the strata provide still another basis for differentiating the archaeological remains of the site. These reasons, and many more which will come out in the following discussion, serve as adequate cause for considering the physical aspects of the strata before the cultural.In the three main areas of the site which were excavated we find distinct stratification. There exists a correlation between all three areas of the site as well.