Phase I Archeological Survey Ball's Ferry State Historic Park Improvements, Wilkinson County, Georgia

In January 2009, R. S. Webb & Associates conducted a Phase I archeological resources survey of proposed improvements to the Ball's Ferry State Historic Site in Wilkinson County, Georgia. The survey was conducted on behalf of MACTEC Engineering and Consulting, Inc. to locate and identify archeological resources within the project area and to assess resource significance based on National Register of Historic Places (NRHP) criteria [36 CFR Part 60.4(a-d)].

The study involved a literature review and intensive archeological field survey of the project area which is composed of road corridors, two parking area, and a boat ramp. Because this was an archeological survey, the Area of Potential Effects (APE) was set at the project area boundaries. During the literature review, records, maps, and documents were examined to determine if previously recorded archeological sites/historic structures are located within or around the project area. Particular interest was paid to Civil War-era activity. The field survey included visual inspection of the landscape for surface features, and the use of standard surface and subsurface methods (surface inspection and screened shovel testing) along transects to identify and record archeological resources within the project area. Given the interest in Civil War-era resources, a metal detector survey was also performed within the project area.

No NRHP listed or eligible properties or state-recognized structures are recorded within or adjacent to the project area. Two previously recorded archeological sites, 9WK2 and 9WK96, are located within 1.6 kilometers of the project area; Site 9WK2 is adjacent to the project area. Review of Civil War-era maps and documents indicate that Union forces camped in the project vicinity in November of 1864, and crossed the Oconee River at this location.

One late 19th-late 20th century historic artifact scatter (9WK111) and two historic isolated finds (IF-1 and IF-2) were recorded during the survey. The isolated finds are metal artifacts recovered during the metal detector survey. Either or both of these [an iron chain link (IF-1); a brass percussion cap (IF-2)] could possibly date to the Civil War era.

Based on the field survey, it does not appear that portions of 9WK111 located within the project area/ APE meet minimum eligibility requirements; however, it is possible that the boundaries of 9WK111 extend beyond the project area/APE. Since the full boundaries have not been confirmed, 9WK111 is considered to have an unknown NRHP eligibility status. The portion of9WK Ill located within the project area retains archeological deposits exhibiting low artifact density and diversity; there is a contingent of non-historic (late 20th century) discard as well. For these reasons, the surveyed portion of9WK111 does not contribute to the overall eligibility of this resource. Isolated fmds IF-1 and IF-2 are recommended ineligible for the NRHP due to a lack of depositional integrity and low artifact density. No further archeological work is recommended for these resources or the project area.