Archaeological Identification and Evaluation of Two Potentially Significant Submerged Targets Hutchinson Island, Savannah, Georgia

Hussey, Gay, Bell & DeYoung Environmental, Inc. [HGD] is working with Chatham County, Georgia to design and construct a bulkhead and riverfront walkway along the Hutchinson Island Savannah River waterfront. During a Phase I archaeological reconnaissance survey conducted by Southern Oceans Archaeological Research of Pensacola, Florida a sonar target was identified inside Slip No. 1 and a subsurface feature (Feature A) was located by probing the riverbank east of the slip. Both sites were determined to have a potential association with cultural material that could qualify for inclusion on the National Register of Historic Places. In order to determine the proposed project's effects on those resources, HGBD contracted with Tidewater Atlantic Research, Inc., of Washington, North Carolina for an archaeological identification and assessment of the cultural material present at each of the sites. Field research was conducted between 20 to 24 October 2002. The results of that investigation revealed that the acoustic target was generated by a scatter of modern debris: several lengths of cut and round timbers and sheets of iron plating. Feature A was identified as the remains of an historic vessel. Design and construction features suggest that the vessel dates to the late 18th to early 19th century. Probing and limited excavation indicates that structural material extends at least 70 feet into the riverbank and that the unexposed structure may be largely intact. Preliminary assessment of the surviving structure indicates that the derelict is historically significant and potentially eligible for nomination to the National Register of Historic Places. It would appear to meet more than one of the four basic criteria for inclusion of the National Register of Historic Places. Recovery of the design and construction data preserved at the site is essential if the proposed project will disturb or destroy the wreck. In the event that mitigation is required, it should be designed to thoroughly document the surviving hull structure. That documentation will preserve the historical and archaeological data that makes the derelict eligible for nomination to the National Register of Historic Places.