Investigating Second Seminole War Sites in Florida: Identification Through Limited Testing

• Main Author: Bell, Christine
• Format: Others
• Published: Scholar Commons 2004
• Subjects: Historical archaeology; artifact dating; military forts; correspondence analysis; homesteads; American Studies; Arts and Humanities
• Online Access: https://scholarcommons.usf.edu/etd/952; https://scholarcommons.usf.edu/cgi/viewcontent.cgi?article=1951&context=etd

This thesis uses the results of limited testing at the Fort Dade (1836-1842) and Hope Homestead (1842-ca. 1900) archaeological sites to establish a method for quickly identifying threatened sites with minimal disturbance to surrounding areas. Artifact analysis, pattern recognition, and comparison with similar known sites are key elements. Pedestrian survey, metal detection, posthole and shovel testing, and test excavation are tools used to accomplish this. Artifact analysis is used to establish date ranges for the sites, as well as the material variation between military and homestead occupations. Artifacts used for analysis include glass, ceramics, nails, arms and personal items. Quantitative analysis of artifact assemblages is utilized to determine broad site type classification, and further contribute to preliminary identification. Correspondence analysis helps differentiate sites according to length and type of occupation. With refinement, this method could be used for preliminary identification of many Seminole War sites. Rapid and widespread development in Florida has made identification of Seminole War sites a priority, so they can be recorded and preserved before they are lost forever.