An Intensive Cultural Resource Assessment Survey of the Proposed Hopeful-Mt. Olive 46kv Transmission Line

A cultural resource assessment survey was conducted of the proposed Hopeful-Mt. Olive transmission line, Mitchell County, Georgia in September 1995. The archaeological investigation included a pedestrian survey of an approximately 9 mile long by 50-100 foot wide corridor, combined with shovel test sampling within 15 archaeological probability zones. In addition, map studies combined with field investigation were used to identify and locate historic structures older than 50 years. The project corridor included most of the existing transmission line and was located completely within the County Road 73 right of way, so any impacts to the existing landscape will be minimal. This report describes the environmental and cultural setting of the project vicinity, provides a review of previous archaeological research in the area, and discusses field and laboratory methods and results of the investigation. Fieldwork resulted in the recording of 7 new cultural resources (9ML98- 104) and the relocation of one previously recorded archaeological site (9ML86) within the proposed impact area, but none is considered potentially eligible for nomination to the National Register of Historic Places. However, intact deposits relating to site 9ML98 may extend to the south onto private property immediately adjacent to the project corridor. In addition, 8 previously unrecorded cultural resources (9ML105-112), two of which contain historic period cemeteries, were recorded adjacent to the proposed transmission line corridor. Additional archaeological and/or historic architectural investigations at sites outside the impact area, as well as 9ML98, are recommended in the event that the design and location of the right of way change to adversely impact these cultural resources. No additional testing is recommended tor any of the cultural resources identified within the project corridor.