An Archaeological Assessment of the Proposed H.C. (Hill) Seaton Reservoir Along Snake Creek

This report details the methods and results of archaeological research within approximately 650 acres defined by the flood level of the proposed H. C. (Hill) Seaton Reservoir along Snake Creek in eastern Carroll County, Georgia (Figure 1). The overall objectives of this research was to identify archaeological resources within the proposed pool level, to assess their significance and eligibility in terms the criteria established in the National Register of Historic Places, to assess the effect of reservoir construction on these resources, and to offer recommendations for measures needed to mitigate negative effects on significant and eligible resources. The archaeological assessment was executed in two phases. Phase I (conducted during November and December of 1990) consisted of systematic survey to detect and locate archaeological resources within the project boundaries. This initial research phase provided preliminary information concerning the nature and size of encountered sites, offered data needed to make a professional assessment of the potential significance and eligibility of each site to the National Register for Historic Places. The Phase I research also provided information needed to develop a strategy for Phase II investigations. This second stage of investigation (conducted during October and November of 1991) consisted of topographic mapping and intensive archaeological testing at those sites determined to be potentially significant and eligible as a result of the Phase I research. The objectives of the Phase II investigation were to gather those data required to document the boundaries and internal character of each site, to assess the range of information available from each site, to assess the significance and eligibility of each site, and to provide mitigative recommendations. All records and artifacts resulting from this archaeological assessment are curated on behalf of the Carroll County Water Authority at the Dr. Antonio J. Waring Archaeological Laboratory of West Georgia College (Accession #306).