The Hart County Board of Commissioners wishes to develop a 54.2‑ha (134‑ac) tract in northern Hart County, in part using federal grants. This required compliance with Section 106 of the National Historic Preservation Act of 1966, as amended, which calls for an assessment of project effects on significant (eligible for listing on the National Register of Historic Places) cultural properties within the project's area of potential effect. The first step in such compliance is completing a survey to determine if significant (eligible) structures or archeological sites exist in the area of potential effect. The project tract is bounded by SR 59 on the north, SR 77 on the west and by various property lines on the south and east. Southeastern Archeological Services, Inc. conducted a Phase I cultural resources survey of the tract from May 28 through June 7, 2012.
Archival research showed that no archeological sites had been recorded within or adjoining the project tract. However, many prehistoric and historic period sites have been recorded in northern Hart County and surrounding areas, and several prehistoric sites were expected on the tract. Historic period maps (the 1929 Soil Survey map of Hart County) and aerial photographs (especially a 1960 Soil Conservation Service aerial photograph) showed that there were three house/farmsteads older than 50 years on the tract, all of which had been razed. No historic structures are within or within view of the project area. The Shoal Creek Church is about 100 m east of the tract, and is shielded from view by woods.
The archeological field survey located 14 archeological sites, mostly sparse prehistoric lithic scatters on ridge crests and late nineteenth to mid‑twentieth century house/farmsteads along the bordering highways. All of the sites have poor integrity, mostly due to intensive plowing, terracing and erosion, but also due to the razing of structures. None ofthe historic period sites are known to be associated with persons or events important in local or state history. None of the sites have significant further research potential. Therefore we recommend that none of the sites meet the criteria for inclusion in the National Register of Historic Places. We conclude that there are no cultural resources eligible for the National Register within the area of potential effect for this development project and that the project should be granted clearance to proceed.
Help us to continue to make advances in research, stewardship, and bringing the past to life. No matter the size of the gift, your contribution will directly support groundbreaking archaeological research through sustaining student and outreach programs, and technological innovations. To make a secure gift online to the Archaeology Lab Fund, CLICK HERE.