Test Excavations at the Central Creek Site (9HR304) Haralson County, Georgia

In June of 1999, Environmental Services, Inc., (ESI) conducted Phase Il archaeological testing at site 9HR304 in Haralson County, Georgia. This site was originally recorded during a cultural resource assessment survey of a tract in Carroll and Haralson Counties (Bland and Smith 1998). The goals of the present investigation were to conduct intensive testing in order to determine the National Register of Historic Places (NRHP) eligibility status of 9HR304, as well as the potential regional or local significance of the site. The present site evaluation was guided by National Register criteria, and was based on interpretations of site integrity, preservation, uniqueness, and future research potential, as revealed through testing. The excavation of large formal units was conducted in several areas of the most dense artifact concentration. It was anticipated that these small, discrete areas were most likely to contain intact deposits, living areas, and/or features associated with past aboriginal activity. A total of 32 square meters was excavated. While diagnostic artifacts were recovered, no intact cultural features or distinct occupational strata were encountered. The recovered artifacts suggest site utilization during the Early to Middle Archaic periods, as well as the 19th Century. As a result of testing, site 9HR304 failed to demonstrate the integrity, distinction, or research potential meeting the criteria listed in Title 36, Part 60 of the Code of Federal Regulations for inclusion in the National Register of Historic Places. It is the opinion of ESI that the data recovered thus far are sufficient to mitigate adverse impact to the site. Site 9HR304 is not considered eligible for listing in the National Register of Historic Places nor is it of local or regional significance, and no further work is recommended. It is recommended that the development of the tract be allowed to proceed without further concern for significant cultural resources.