Ciskowski, Thomas (Indianapolis Amateur Archaeology Association, Inc.)
A TEST EXCAVATION ALONG COOL CREEK, HAMILTON COUNTY, INDIANA
12 H 63 is a large (approximately five acres) prehistoric site located two thousand
feet west of the White River along Cool Creek in southern Hamilton County, Indiana.
The site, first reported in 1972, was resurveyed by the Indianapolis Amateur Archaeology
Association in the fall of 1990. The results of this and other surveys indicated
a major Late Archaic component. Since no information was available on the subsurface
deposition, the IAAA decided to conduct a test excavation. The excavation of two
five foot by five foot test units was completed in May, 1991 under Indiana Department
of Historic Preservation and Archaeology Permit No. 910013. The results of this
test indicates the presence of an intact midden. One large (approximately one
meter wide) circular feature was identified extending through the base of the
midden. Feature fill included a large quantity of charred nut fragments. One diagnostic
artifact, identified as a Late Archaic McWhinnley point, was found beneath the
plow zone. Based on the present information, the IAAA has determined that 12 H
63 is potentially eligible for nomination to the National Register of Historic
Places. The IAAA is grateful to American Aggregrates for granting access to their
property in order to conduct this investigation. [return to 1991 abstracts menu][continue to next]