Archeological Survey of the Proposed Nicholson 115 kV Transmission Line and 115/25 kV Substation, Jackson County, Georgia

This report presents the results of an intensive archeological survey performed by Southeastern Archeological Services, Inc. in eastern Jackson County, where the Georgia Transmission Corporation wishes to construct the 115/25 kV Nicholson substation and a 1.08 mi (1.74 km) 115 kV transmission line that will connect the substation to an existing transmission line. The goal of the survey was to locate and evaluate any archeological resources that may be adversely affected by the construction of the transmission line and substation. The survey was undertaken in compliance with Section 106 of the National Historic Preservation Act of 1966, as amended. The area of potential effect for the project consisted of a nearly square, 4.5 ac (1.8 ha) tract of land that will house the substation and a 100 ft (30 m) wide corridor for the transmission line. Archival research showed that two mid-twentieth century houses once existed on the substation tract, along with a late nineteenth to mid-twentieth century African-American church. A school associated with the church still stands (abandoned) immediately north of the substation tract. Archival research showed no other structures in the project area. The project area was surveyed in March and June of 2009 and four sites and one isolated artifact occurrence were recorded. All are recommended as not eligible for inclusion in the National Register of Historic Places. The sites are: Substation Tract 9JK274 - late 1940s tol990s farm complex, houses moved 9JK275 - late 19th to mid-20th c. African-American church, demolished about 1960 Transmission Line 9JK276 - mid- to late 19'' c. house site, now in pasture 9JK277 - late 19'h to early 20'' c. artifact scatter; possible house site Artifact Occurrence 1 - tip of a projectile point We recommend that because of a lack of integrity, a lack of research potential and no known associations with persons or events important in local history, all sites and the occurrence are not eligible for inclusion in the National Register of Historic Places. We recommend that the project be granted clearance to proceed.