Archeological Investigation of a Prehistoric Site on the West Americus 115/25/12 kV Substation Tract, Sumter County, Georgia

This report presents the results of an archeological survey performed by Southeastern Archeological Services, Inc. (SAS) near Americus (Sumter County), Georgia, where the Georgia Transmission Corporation operates an existing 115/25/15 kV substation. SAS was contacted by personnel of Georgia Transmission Corporation Environmental Services Department to examine and evaluate a possible prehistoric site located on the substation property. The area to be investigated consisted of previously cleared and graded property covering approximately 2.2 ha'(5.5 ac). The property surrounding the existing substation is predominately open land with grass cover with numerous patches of exposed ground surface. Woodlands lie to the north, south, and east. The landform containing the site has been cultivated and most, if not all, of the tract has been graded. The tract overlooks two minor tributary streams that flow into Muckalee Creek approximately 1.7 km to the east. The substation tract is bounded by commercial development to the west (Georgia Forest Products), Seaboard Coast Line Railroad on the north, and undeveloped wooded areas in the other directions. The tract was found to contain a previously unrecorded and highly disturbed prehistoric site (9SU241) that probably dates primarily to the Late Archaic period. All exposed surface areas were thoroughly searched and all visible artifacts were collected. Four shovel tests were excavated to recover data relating to the archeological site. The field investigation included of a total collection of prehistoric artifacts consisting of chipped stone tools and debris found on exposed areas. All shovel tests were negative with respect to cultural material. The excavation of the shovel tests confirmed that the site area was severely disturbed by grading and land clearing related to prior construction of the substation. Because of the high level of disturbance, the site is not considered eligible for listing in the National Register of Historic Places. Thus, we conclude that no additional work is required with respect to the archeological resources at the location.