Archaeological Testing at the Fielder-little Farmstead (9Pm990)

Archaeological testing was conducted at the Fielder-Little farmstead site (9Pm990) during November 1994, by Brockington and Associates, Inc. The site was originally recorded by West Georgia College (1993) during Phase I archaeological survey in the Oconee Wildlife Management Area. Site 9Pm990 is a component of an educational trail system developed by Georgia Power Company and the Georgia Department of Natural Resources. Site testing included archaeological and historical studies. Two transects of 50 by 50 cm test units were excavated at 5 meter intervals along the long axis of the site. In addition, three formal test units (1 by 1 meter) were excavated adjacent to brick clusters and one 50 by 50 cm test unit was excavated adjacent to a well. Laboratory analyses included identification and quantification of artifacts, and interpretation of archaeological contexts. Archival research focused on identifying site occupants and delineating period of occupation. Analysis of archaeological testing and background research results indicate that 9Pm990 represents an early to late nineteenth century farmstead, occupied by members of two prominent Putnam County families, the Fielders and the Littles. This site is recommended eligible for the National Register of Historic Places under Criterion D, at the local level of significance. Despite extensive post-depositional agricultural disturbance, structural features are somewhat intact and the site appears to have retained contextual integrity. Analysis of testing results indicates that development and maintenance of the educational trail in its current location will not have an adverse effect on this site.