Expanding the Southern Route: US 441 Southeast Archaeological Resources Survye and Testing Echols, Clinch and Atkinson Counties

Under contract with the Georgia Department of Transportation (GDOT), Brockington and Associates, Inc., conducted an intensive archaeological resources survey (Phase I) within the proposed widening corridor along US 441 in southeast Georgia (Echols, Clinch and Atkinson counties). Survey was followed by archaeological testing (Phase II) at one site in Clinch County. These tasks were completed in compliance with Section 106 of the National Historic Preservation Act of 1966, as amended and to comply with regulations implementing this legislation (36 CFR Part 800: Protection of Historic Properties). Our investigation, conducted between 30 April and 8 June 2001, included background research and field investigations, as specified in the project Scope of Work. Background research was conducted at the Georgia Archaeological Site File (University of Georgia, Athens) to determine if any previously recorded archaeological sites were present in the area surrounding the project. We identified four archaeological sites (905, 9CI6, 9CI7, 9CI17) that had been previously recorded within the vicinity, but not within the boundary, of the project corridor. We found no evidence of these sites during field investigations. Phase I archaeological resources survey consisted of the excavation of shovel tests at 30 meter (100 ft) intervals within the corridor. During field investigation, we recorded 14 archaeological sites and 24 isolated finds. Only one site (9CI170) merited archaeological testing, since it was the only resource with the potential for intact buried deposits: Based on the results of our shovel testing and test excavations, we recommend that 9CI170 should be considered not eligible for the National Register of Historic Places (NRHP). The other 13 sites have been greatly disturbed by previous timbering activities, exhibit no additional research potential, and are also recommended ineligible for the NRHP. Isolated finds are generally considered to be ineligible for the NRHP. No significant archaeological resources will be affected by the proposed highway project. This project should be granted archaeological resources clearance.