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16. Archeological Investigations at Voyageurs National Park: 1979-1980.
Lynott, Mark J. ,Jeffrey J. Richner , and Mona Thompson

During 1979 and 1980, approximately 16 weeks of survey and site testing were conducted at Voyageurs National Park. The investigations were designed to test an extant model of prehistoric site location, and to evaluate the condition of archeological sites in the park. The project was also designed to gather information about past patterns of human adaptation in the park.

Survey activities included transect samples, intensive shoreline coverage of segments of the park, and intensive examination of campgrounds and other developments. A total of 89 known sites were revisited, and 49 previously unknown sites were recorded. Survey data supported a model of prehistoric sites being located adjacent to major lakes or rivers. Survey activities in 1980 also included efforts to relocate Virginia &Rainy Lake Company lumber camps.

Site testing as a technique of site evaluation was empasized during both seasons of field research. A total of 24 sites were tested, and a large body of data relating to the Woodland and Historic periods was collected. The majority of tested sites appear to be small, intermittantly occupied camps, but larger seasonally occupied villages are also present. Laurel and Blackduck sites are most common, but Selkirk and perhaps Sandy Lake sites are also represented. Testing efforts were designed to minimize adverse impacts to archeological resources during evaluative testing, so artifact samples are often small. Ceramics and chipped stone tools and debris are the most common artifact forms, but large and diverse samples of faunal remains were collected at a few sites.

Survey and testing data document that raises in lake levels associated with dam construction at Kettle Falls and International Falls have resulted in severe erosion of all prehistoric sites within the park. Less than 25% of the sites investigated during this project still contain primary context archeological deposits. The data collected during 1979 and 1980 provide an excellent basis for reconstructing human past lifeways in Voyageurs National Park, and demonstrate that significant resources are present.

Due to the sensitive nature of this subject this report is available to professional archeologists only. If you order this manuscript we may contact you for verification of your profession.