Date of Award

5-1999

Document Type

Thesis

Degree Name

Master of Arts (MA)

Department

Geography and Anthropology

First Advisor

Rebecca Saunders

Abstract

This thesis is an examination of southeastern Louisiana archaeology focusing on Unit Two at the Sharp site (16LV13) on the Lower Amite River. The artifact analysis, and more specifically the pottery analysis, demonstrated a significant early occupation at the site. The analyzed pottery represents cultural components at the Sharp site which span from the Tchula through Coles Creek periods.

Within Unit Two there was an obvious subsistence change evident. The upper strata of the midden contained a great deal of Rangia clam shell, while the earlier cultural occupations below it did not. This change in exploitation of local food sources may be directly related to the shift in the Lower Amite River, which brought more fresh-water sources into the area which could be then exploited for food.

This study presents information regarding the cultural components, environment, and integrity of Unit Two at the Sharp site, and therefore, helps to create an overall picture of the site. This thesis also provides information for the study of other Lower Amite River sites affected by the course of the Amite River.

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