Phase I Cultural Resources Survey Proposed Hutchinson Island Riverwalk Project Savannah, Chatham County, Georgia

A cultural resources survey was conducted of the proposed extension of the Riverwalk around the southern portion of Slip I on Hutchinson Island, Savannah, Georgia. The Riverwalk will be extended for approximately 588.7 linear meters (1,930 feet) around the portion of Slip I located south of Resort Drive and east of the Westin Hotel. The investigations, conducted between October 9 through 24, 2001, consisted of a literature review and an intensive field survey of the project area. Slip 1, a late 19th/early 20th century boat slip, was recorded as Site 9CH376 during a 1978 reconnaissance survey conducted by University of South Carolina archeologists. No further work was recommended for the site at that time. During the last five years the southern portion of the slip has been dredged and the Westin Resort was built. From the current survey it was noted that construction of the Westin Resort has significantly modified the west side of the slip, while the east side remains undeveloped. Displaced remains of the pilings, planking and brickwork associated with the slip were observed along the east bank. Evidence of bank erosion was also seen. No intact features or cultural deposits were identified. Based on the survey findings, the portion of Site 9CH376 within the corridor does not appear to meet criteria for NRHP eligibility due to the severe modification from new construction, structure removal, past and recent dredging operations and shoreline erosion. However, since the condition of the north portion of the site (beyond the scope of this project) could not be clearly assessed, the eligibility of the site is considered unknown, but with no adverse effect in terms of the Riverwalk project. Considering above ground historic resources, none were observed within or adjacent to the project area. According to the literature review, the Savannah Historic District across the Savannah River, contains the most proximate standing historic structures to the project area. Due to distance and the proposed ground level construction of the Riverwalk, there will be no visual impact to the historic district or individual historic structures. Given the results of the survey, clearance is recommended for the construction of the extension of the Riverwalk along Slip 1.