Geoarchaeology and Archaeological Site Patterning on the Middle Gila River, Arizona
Academic Article
Overview
Identity
Additional Document Info
Other
View All
Overview
abstract
AbstractArchaeological surveys and prehistoric settlement patterns are best interpreted when placed on a geomorphic map that defines the distribution and age of physical landforms. Survey data can thus be used to address questions of archaeological site visibility and synchronic and diachronic site patterning on the Gila River Indian Reservation, Arizona. A chronological series of alluvial and eolian landforms are defined on the reservation. The age of the landforms and underlying sediments has affected the preservation and visibility of the archaeological record. Further, late prehistoric Hohokam settlements (A.D. 700?1500) and their associated agricultural lands show a clear landform zonation and that the intensity of use of these landforms has changed over time.