In May of 2009 Southeastern Archeological Services conducted a Phase I archeological survey of three parcels of land (Tax Parcels 121-006A, 121-006B, and 121-003A) totaling 10.1 acres, composed mostly river floodplain with a section of a steep hillslope. The acreage is located on the east bank of the Middle Oconee River at a place known as Jennings Shoals, just north of the U.S. 78/Atlanta Highway bridge. Athens-Clarke County is interested in acquiring the property and maintaining it as greenspace. There are no plans to develop the tract. Documentary research determined that a nineteenth century grist mill was located at the shoals. No archeological evidence of the mill was found in the project area. The survey discovered two previously unrecorded archeological sites. Both are prehistoric sites that occupy the levee overlooking the river, and both are blanketed with modern alluvium. Additional excavations would be necessary to determine if the sites have any scientific value. Because the property will be passively maintained, and the sites are protected by the layer of sediment, we recommend that no additional archeological studies are required.
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