CGRG Bibliography of Canadian Geomorphology
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Author : Bell, T.; Renouf, M.A.P.; and Smith, I.
Date : 1998
Title : Holocene relative sea level change and the search for a maritime archaic indian habitation site at Port Au Choix, Western Newfoundland
Publication : Abstract Volume, Joint meeting GAC, MAC, APGGQ, IAH, CGU, May 18-20, 1998, Quebec City
Issue :
Page(s) :
Abstract
This paper describes how a reconstruction of the Holocene relative sea level (RSL) history contributed to the search for an archaeological site on the Great Northern Peninsula, western Newfoundland. In 1967, the largest known Maritime Archaic Indian (MAI) cemetery in northeastern North America was discovered at Port au Choix, Newfoundland (4400-3300 yr BP; 6 m asl). The search for an accompanying habitation site has been ongoing, as it would provide important information on subsistence, technology and social organization. The marine-oriented MAI occupied sites within easy access of the sea. Understanding the RSL history, therefore, is critical to directing archaeological site surveys. Three models of Holocene RSL history have been proposed for this region: a type-A model in which sea level falls from marine limit (~140 m) more or less continuously to the present; a type-B model in which sea level falls below its present level by 8000 yr BP and then rises to the modern level; and a modified type-B model in which a brief sea level oscillation above present is postulated between 3500 and 2000 yr BP. Each of the models has different implications for possible MAI habitation site location. If the type-A model is correct, the habitation site should be at or higher than 6 m asl, and if either of the type-B models is correct, the site would have been situated at or below current sea level. These RSL models were tested using diatoms and the lake isolation method, which can detect fluctuations in sea level (including possible marine incursions), and by dating low elevation raised marine sediments. Preliminary results suggest that the type-A RSL history is most appropriate. Thus, through interviews with residents that identified the provenance of non-cemetary MAI artefacts, a reconstruction of the paleo-shoreline configurations, and an understanding of physical and cultural site preferences, a marine terrace between 8 and 10 m asl was selected as a probable habitation site. Test-trenching on the terrace in 1997 revealed an extensive archaeological site (~2 ha) with diagnostic MAI artefacts and numerous hearths, two of which dated 3270 and 3740 yr BP.
Bibliography of Canadian Geomorphology