Archaeological Survey and Evaluation of a 26 Mile Segment of the Outer Perimeter Corridor Gwinnett, Newton, Rockdale, and Walton Counties, Georgia

Brockington and Associates, Inc. conducted archaeological resources survey and evaluation of a 26 mile segment of the proposed Outer Perimeter corridor in Gwinnett, Newton, Rockdale, and Walton Counties, Georgia. Project goals included location and evaluation of all archaeological resources which might be impacted by proposed construction activities, and development of management recommendations. Historical and archaeological research consisted of examination of relevant archival resources and field survey. Field survey involved pedestrian coverage of the entire project corridor. Screened shovel testing and visual inspection of exposed ground surfaces were the primary methods used to locate and evaluate archaeological resources. These investigations resulted in the identification and evaluation of 28 archaeological sites and 30 isolated finds. Ten of the recorded sites exhibit prehistoric components; the remaining 18 sites represent historic Euroamerican activity. Isolated finds are represented by 18 prehistoric and 12 historic artifact locations. Three of the recorded sites are considered significant and are recommended eligible for the National Register of Historic Places. Site 9R071 is a late nineteenth through middle twentieth century farm complex consisting of 14 structures. Intact structural remains and surface features observed during survey and evaluation indicate potential to contribute to local and regional historic research. If avoidance of 9R071 is not a viable alternative, then data recovery is recommended. Site 9R072, an abandoned family cemetery, is recommended eligible for the National Register of Historic Places. Intact surface features observed during survey and evaluation indicate potential to contribute to local and regional historic research. If avoidance of 9R072 is not a viable alternative, then an application for a relocation permit should be completed. A second family cemetery, 9R073, is also recommended eligible for the National Register of Historic Places. Intact surface features observed during survey and evaluation indicate potential to contribute to local and regional historic research. Site 9R073 is located adjacent to the proposed corridor segment; however, its proximity warrants that if avoidance is not a viable alternative, then an application for a relocation permit should be completed. Previous residential and commercial development, farming and logging activities, and erosional processes have severely impacted the majority of the project corridor, leaving it with poor overall integrity. Based on the findings of this cultural resources survey, and pending avoidance/mitigation at 9R071, 9R072, and 9R073, it is recommended that this segment of the proposed Outer Perimeter corridor be given archaeological resources clearance to proceed.