Contemplating Test Unit 3

By David Butler, MA, RPA, ABD

Test unit three has been excavated to a depth of 100 centimeters below datum (105 centimeters below the ground surface). The cultural material associated with this unit thus far has consisted of two diagnostic projectile points (Pinnelas Points), lithic flakes, Belle Glade Plain pottery (body sherds and rim sherds with at least three distinct rim treatments), one sizeable exotic rim sherd (perhaps Deptford or Weedon Island), bone pin fragments, faunal remains and a multitude of features. This artifact assemblage and its associated context is consistent with what has been recovered from the previous two test units associated with the overall Blueberry Parcel research project.

There were over fifty features identified and documented in this test unit alone. Features were of three primary types: post molds, pits, and hearths. One interesting pattern associated with the pits in this unit is that the majority of them had posts terminating from their base. This pattern indicates that individuals at the Blueberry site were digging pits as a way to initiate post placement. Following this step circular post holes were dug and posts were then set in place over time producing what archaeologists identify as “post molds” (residual traces of rotted posts). Overall, these features represent two discernable patterns. First, are the post molds and associated pits that form a straight line paralleling the south wall of the unit. Second, they form two overlapping semicircles that appear to extend out of the unit to the north. These semicircles likely represent the ends of two oval structures associated with distinct building episodes. Because of this trend a neighboring 2X2 meter unit was opened directly north of TU3. It is hoped that this unit will shed insight into the overall dimensions of these structures and more clearly define their association with the “wall” of posts that parallel the south property line of TU3. Further, future research in the area of TU3 will prioritize defining the terminous of this straight line to the east and west.

Currently, all cultural material from test pit/shovel test contexts (representing around 250 positive test pits) is being processed (sorted, weighed, cataloged, and photographed). Professor Butler and three of his students will be presenting posters and or papers addressing research at the Blueberry Site at the upcoming FAS meeting.