New South Associates conducted a Phase I Archaeological Survey of the 101-acre Blackjack tract in Hall County, Georgia. The survey was conducted from May 23 to 31, 2006 in preparation for a land exchange. The project area is located in the southern section Hall County just north of the Gwinnett County line and just north of the intersection of Swansey Road and Blackjack Road.
This report presents the results of the background research, archaeological fieldwork, and analysis of data. Prior to conducting fieldwork, background research was conducted at the Georgia State Site File and the Science Library map room at the University of Georgia, Athens. Five previously recorded sites were found within a one-mile radius of the project area (9HL481, 9HL487, 9HL488, 9HL489, and 9HL490). In addition, New South Associates located two archaeological sites within the project area (9HL515 and 9HL516), a dump site, and two isolated finds. Of these resources, site 9HL515, a prehistoric rock shelter site, is considered potentially eligible for nomination to the National Register of Historic Places (NRHP), while the isolated finds and site 9HL515 are considered not eligible for the NRHP.
Site 9HL515 was identified as a rock shelter that contained a prehistoric lithic scatter. The Phase I testing was able to identify the location of the site but not its eligibility to the NRHP. Either preservation in place or additional test unit excavations are recommended to determine the integrity and depths of subsurface deposits that may exist at this type of site.
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.