New South Associates, Inc. (NSA) conducted a Phase I Archaeological Survey of the planned bridge replacement along US 76 over Big Turniptown Creek in Gilmer County, Georgia. The survey was completed on behalf of the Georgia Department of Transportation (GDOT) and as part of GDOT PI o. 0015547. This survey was pursuant to Section 106 of the National Historic Preservation Act, as amended (36 CFR 800), and was intended to identify and evaluate the National Register of Historic Places (NRHP) eligibility of archaeological resources in the project's Environmental Survey Boundary (ESB).
The ESB extends 3,019 feet (920 m) along US 76, a four-lane divided highway, and measures 470 feet (143 m) wide, except for a 437-foot (133-m) segment in roughly the center where it expands to approximately 570 feet (174 m) to accommodate new ROW for the proposed bridge. The existing Right-of-Way (ROW) is 291-420 feet (89-1 28 m) on US 76.
The Phase I Survey consisted of background research and an intensive archaeological survey of the ESB. Background research was performed to determine if any previously recorded archaeological sites were present within the ESB and to develop expectations regarding the potential for archaeological sites in the ESB. The archaeological survey was designed to identify archaeological resources within the ESB. One archaeological site, 9GI247, was identified as a result of the survey. The site represents an early to late twentieth-century occupation, likely of a domestic nature. The site was not fully delineated within the ESB, and an unknown portion may be present outside of the ESB to the east of the known portion of the site. The known portion of the site lacks significant data potential. An ESA is recommended for the unknown portion of the site outside of the ESB.
While shovel testing and auguring did not yield any archaeological material, surface inspection identified a scatter of architectural refuse between Shovel Tests 62, 63, 32, and 33 in the northeastern portion of the ESB. These finds received the designation Site 9GI247. The site occupies a ridge spur overlooking Little Turniptown Creek to the southwest. The landform has been truncated along the US 76 road cut on the west and northwest.
Help us to continue to make advances in research, stewardship, and bringing the past to life. No matter the size of the gift, your contribution will directly support groundbreaking archaeological research through sustaining student and outreach programs, and technological innovations. To make a secure gift online to the Archaeology Lab Fund, CLICK HERE.