Phase I Cultural Resources Survey of Hales Landing, Lake Seminole, Decatur County, Georgia

From 11 to 15 March 2002, Brockington and Associates, Inc., conducted intensive Phase I cultural resources survey of the 93 acres (37.6 ha) Area of Potential Effect (APE) for a new campground development at Hales Landing, Lake Seminole, Decatur County, Georgia. The project was carried out under the direction of the US Army Corps of Engineers, Mobile District, in compliance with Section 106 of the National Historic Preservation Act (33 CFR3 25 -Appendix C) and Georgia State Historic Preservation Office guidelines. The survey was conducted by personnel qualified under 36 CFR 61. The previously identified Hales Landing site (9DR15) was known to be located within the project tract. Excavations were conducted at 9DR15 in 1948 (Kelly n.d.), and the site was surveyed by the Cleveland Museum of Natural History between 1978 and 1981 (White et al. 1981). The Cleveland Museum recommended 9DR15 eligible for the National Register of Historic Places (NRHP). The goal of this survey was to redefine the boundaries of site 9DR15 and to determine if any additional archaeological sites are present within the APE. Site 9DR15 was located, site boundaries were delineated, and appropriate GPS readings were recorded. No additional archaeological resources were identified. The boundaries of site 9DR 15 were determined to be approximately 200 meters (656.2 ft) north/south by 300 meters (984.3 ft) east/west. The site has been moderately disturbed by dirt roads or trails that intersect the site. However, the site is fairly deep (60-110 cmbs) and most of the deposits, including portions of a shell midden, appear to be relatively intact. Artifacts recovered include Woodland period ceramics, lithic flakes, shell, and faunal remains. Looting has apparently been a problem at the site in the past. Both Kelly (n.d.) and White et al. (1981) note in their reports that numerous "pot holes" had been excavated site. However, no evidence of looting or vandalism was observed during the current survey. Site 9DR15 was recommended eligible for the National Register of Historic Places in 1981 (White et al. 1981); this survey supports that recommendation. The site is large, and contains intact subsurface cultural deposits and at least one feature (a shell midden). The potential for additional intact subsurface cultural features is high. This site has the potential to address research questions regarding Woodland period culture in southwest Georgia and to clarify chronological problems in the area. Avoidance of the site is recommended. If plans for the campground cannot accommodate avoidance, then investigation is recommended.