InSitu Online Publication

Page 1

IN SITU - ONLINE PUBLICATION Volume 2, Issue 1

Copyright 2005, 2006

Artifact Hunting at it’s best

ALABAMA ALABAMA ARKANSAS ARKANSAS BC BC CANADA CANADA CALIFORNIA CALIFORNIA CHINA CHINA FLORIDA FLORIDA ILLINOIS ILLINOIS KENTUCKY KENTUCKY MISSOURI MISSOURI OKALAHOMA OKALAHOMA OREGON OREGON TEXAS TEXAS VIRGINIA VIRGINIA WASHINGTON WASHINGTON

FREE

Lynn Hough

Mike Menichetti

ACS

Found by: Rhonda Allen

China

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IN SITU - ONLINE PUBLICATION Volume 2, Issue 1

From the Editor David Heath

Artifact Hunting at it’s best

It is a real treat for me to put this publication together. I wish to thank everyone who has contributed to this project. I have received a lot of kudos from the artifact collecting community, but the real kudos goes to all of the collectors who have contributed. You are the folks walking the fields, creeks, desert sands and high mountains. Having the opportunity to share in what collectors are finding all across North America has been great.

In Situ is a free, not for profit, online publication featuring the “In Situ” finds of artifact collectors from across the North America. The goal at In Situ Online Publication is to support the artifact collecting community and its interests at large and to promote the hobby of artifact collecting in a responsible manner.

I have changed the overall layout of the publication. This has been done to enlarge and allow for more images, while trying to maintain a finished product that is 5 Meg or less in file size (I hope). This Issue is the largest to-date at 50+ pages. A special thanks for contributing to this publication goes to:

E-ALERTS

Shade Murray

Garry Weinmeister

Mike Menichetti

Ezra Smith

Lori Menichetti

Park Waller

Jeff Stafford

Matt Jones

Insitu@comast.net

Bob Davidson

Larry

Subject: Add to Mail List

Tony Hardie

Rhonda Allen

Michael Dolcini

Darrell Allen

Dave Ross

Rick Burton

Lynn Hough

Travis Cobb

Anthony Havens

Don Buhl

Chuck Newcomb

Steve Colbert

Robert J. Davis

Joshua Ream

Chris Capley

ASC

If you are interested in receiving a friendly email announcement regarding the In Situ Online Publication and new releases, please contact us at:

The In situ Online Publication mail list will remain private and will not be provided to any third parties. Copyright This document is authorized for distribution in an electronic format through selected organizations. This document is free to download and print for personal and educational uses only. For permission to use a particular item for any other uses, such as publishing, video production, exhibits, product presentations, interior design, advertising, or similar commercial purposes, interested parties must obtain written permission from the owning repository of this publication.

Whose contributions are greatly appreciated.

Contact In Situ: Insitu@comcast.net

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IN SITU - ONLINE PUBLICATION Volume 2, Issue 1

FEATURES

SALTING FIELDS “They Planted Points”

5

Shade Murray of Alabama

8

Dave Ross of Florida

13

Toni Hardie of British Columbia Canada

18

Anthony Havens of Illinois

20

Darrell Allen of Texas

21

Larry of Oregon

23

Michael Dolcini of California

30

Mike Menichetti of Arkansas

31

Jeff Stafford of Arkansas

33

ASC of Washington

36

Rick Burton of Texas

37

Garry Weinmeister of Okalahoma

38

Ezra Smith of Okalahoma

40

Park Waller of Okalahoma

41

Matt Jones of Okalahoma

42

Chuck Newcomb of Illinois

43

Travis Cobb of Texas

44

Don Buhl of Virginia

45

Bob Davidson of British Columbia Canada

47

Robert J. Davis of Kentucky

50

Chris Capley of Kentucky

51

Eric Price of Arkansas (from Steve Colbert)

Volume 1

52

Southern Caribbean Pipe (from Joshua Ream)

Issue 3 (Sep 05)

By: David Heath - Page 15

Mysteries of China The Sanxingdui Archaeological Site Page 25

Past Issues Volume 1 Issue 1 (Apr 05)

Volume 1

3

Issue 2 (Jul 05)


In Situ

Online Publication

“Artifact Hunting At It’s Best” Volume 2, Issue 1

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ARROWHEADS / INDIAN ARTIFACTS / PREHISTORIC RELICS / ARCHAEOLOGY Arrowhead Chat Room / Discussion Page / Artifact Auction / Resource Pages / Related Links / Artifact Dealers

Visit us at: http://www.arrowheads.com

PREMIER SITE FOR THE COLLECTION OF INDIAN ARTIFACTS AND THE PREVENTION OF ARTIFACT FRAUD We have Arrowhead Related Articles, A Discussion Bulletin Board, Members Bio, Members Artifacts, Tons of Arrowhead related Links. Just Register to enjoy all the benefits. Visit us at: http://www.arrowpack.com

Collecting relics for most of us is more than a hobby, it is a passion. The relics left by past people each tell us story, give us a glimpse into the past. It is our duty to preserve this past for future generations. On this site you will find information that will be helpful to the average, as well as, more advanced collector. Discussion forum, arcade games, artifact trivia, real-time chat, artifacts for sale, useful articles & typology are just a few of the things you will find. Don't forget to check out my pottery restoration page! - Matt Rowe Visit us at: http://www.arrowheads1.com

ALASKAN ARTIFACTS Features detailed information related to North Alaskan and Aleutian Artifacts Visit us at: http://www.alaskanartifacts.com 4


In Situ

Online Publication “Artifact Hunting At It’s Best”

Volume 2, Issue 1

IN SI·TU(ĬN SĒ'TŪ) - IN THE ORIGINAL POSITION

Found by: Shade Murray - Alabama

Photos by: Shade Murray

This Celt was found in a field after flood waters had receded. It has several plow scraps but no breaks. It is the first greenstone Celt I have ever found. I found it in May 2003 in Madison Co., Alabama. It is made from a polished greenstone and measures 5 ½” long. - Shade Murray 5


In Situ

Online Publication “Artifact Hunting At It’s Best”

Volume 2, Issue 1

IN SI·TU(ĬN SĒ'TŪ) - IN THE ORIGINAL POSITION

Found by: Shade Murray - Alabama

Photos by: Shade Murray

This nice Kirk Corner Notch was found in a ditch-washout next to a large creek that empties into the river. I found it in March 2004 in Madison Co., Alabama. It is made from a Cream colored Chert and measures 2 3/4” long. - Shade Murray Kirk Corner Notch - Early to Middle Archaic 6


In Situ

Online Publication “Artifact Hunting At It’s Best”

Volume 2, Issue 1

IN SI·TU(ĬN SĒ'TŪ) - IN THE ORIGINAL POSITION

Found by: Shade Murray - Alabama

This nice Cotaco Creek was found it in March 2004 in Morgan Co, Alabama. It is made from Dover Chert and measures 2 1/2” long. Cotaco Creek - Woodland

- Shade Murray

Mud Creek - Late Archaic to Woodland

This Mud Creek was found it in March 2004 in Madison Co, Alabama. It is made from Grey flint and measures 2” long. - Shade Murray Photos by: Shade Murray

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In Situ

Online Publication “Artifact Hunting At It’s Best”

Volume 2, Issue 1

IN SI·TU(ĬN SĒ'TŪ) - IN THE ORIGINAL POSITION

Found by: Dave Ross - Florida

Photos by: Dave Ross

This Newnan was found washing out of the banks of the Withlacoochee River in Citrus Co Florida on December 26, 2004. It’s made of a Local Chert, but I am not sure what it is called. - Dave Ross

Newnan - Middle Archaic

Photos by: Dave Ross

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In Situ

Online Publication “Artifact Hunting At It’s Best”

Volume 2, Issue 1

IN SI·TU(ĬN SĒ'TŪ) - IN THE ORIGINAL POSITION

Found by: Dave Ross - Florida

Blue colored blade, it is water stained Coastal Plains Chert. Found August 27, 2005 in Citrus Co. Florida. - Dave Ross

Photos by: Dave Ross

This little blade is made from Coastal Plains Chert. Found September 20, 2005 in Citrus Co. Florida. I believe this may be a Hernando Preform. - Dave Ross 9


In Situ

Online Publication “Artifact Hunting At It’s Best”

Volume 2, Issue 1

IN SI·TU(ĬN SĒ'TŪ) - IN THE ORIGINAL POSITION

Found by: Dave Ross - Florida

A nice Hardee Beveled made of heat treated Coastal Plains Chert. Found August 27, 2005 in Citrus Co. Florida. - Dave Ross

Photos by: Dave Ross

Pictured is a Lafayette made of heat treated Coastal Plains Chert. Found August 27, 2005 in Citrus Co. Florida. - Dave Ross Hardee Beveled - Early to Mid. Archaic Lafayette - Late Archaic 10


In Situ

Online Publication “Artifact Hunting At It’s Best”

Volume 2, Issue 1

IN SI·TU(ĬN SĒ'TŪ) - IN THE ORIGINAL POSITION

Found by: Dave Ross - Florida

Photos by: Dave Ross

Photos by: Dave Ross

Shown in situ is a broken Adena. What makes this point interesting is that it is made out of Coral and has a large bluish colored bulls-eye. This point was found on September 20, 2005 in Citrus Co. Florida.

- Dave Ross

Adena - Late Archaic to Woodland 11


In Situ

Online Publication “Artifact Hunting At It’s Best”

Volume 2, Issue 1

IN SI·TU(ĬN SĒ'TŪ) - IN THE ORIGINAL POSITION

Found by: Lynn Hough - Florida

A fantastic Hernando made of high grade Coastal Plains Chert. Found August 27, 2005 in Citrus Co. Florida. - Dave Ross

Hernando - Late Archaic

Photos by: Dave Ross

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In Situ

Online Publication “Artifact Hunting At It’s Best”

Volume 2, Issue 1

IN SI·TU(ĬN SĒ'TŪ) - IN THE ORIGINAL POSITION

Found by: Tony Hardie - British Columbia Canada

Photos by: Tony Harie

Keatly Creek Site, Interior Plateau of British Columbia was a large pit house villages occupied continuously for more than 1,000 years. Shown in-situ is a small basalt dart point. - Tony Hardie Visit us at: http://www.bcartifacts.com 13


In Situ

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“Artifact Hunting At It’s Best”

Not for Profit

Volume 2, Issue 1

The Central States Archaeological Societies, Inc. is a non-profit organization and has no paid officers or employees. Donate funds now to assist us in meeting our mission statement. Our mission is to develop a better understanding among professional and non-professional collectors of archaeological material, students, museums and institutions of learning, and to further this understanding by providing a means of publishing articles of interest by both professional and amateur archaeologists.

Visit us at: http://www.csasi.org

Not for Profit

The AUTHENTIC ARTIFACT COLLECTORS ASSOCIATION (AACA) is a group of individuals dedicated to the collection of authentic ancient Native American artifacts. As members we uphold the Association’s goals and subscribe to its rules of conduct pertaining to the collection and the sale of ancient relics. We welcome all collectors and dealers with the desire to avoid reproductions to join the AACA. Visit us at: http://theaaca.com

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In Situ

Online Publication “Artifact Hunting At It’s Best”

Volume 2, Issue 1

IN SI·TU(ĬN SĒ'TŪ) - IN THE ORIGINAL POSITION

SALTING FIELDS - “They Planted Points” By: David Heath The Artifact collecting community is not immune to this phenomenon. “Artifacts are planted all the time for collectors to find, often by relatives or friends just wanting the collector to have a good day,” writes Alex Przygoda of Jackson Galleries. “I've got a stack of similar situations and bizarre occurrences that have happened in the field, everything from guys finding Gray Ghosts in rivers, to electric pencil signed fakes found in caves, to a gentleman who has been pulling caches of Cumberlands, Clovises, Pinetrees, and other points out of a Rock Shelter that HE PURCHASED solely because of the 'fantastic pieces' that were being found there. From the Authenticator's point of view, he absolutely cannot believe the story presented to him by the 'finder'. As such, personal finds will invariably end up getting “killed” a small percentage of the time.”

A practice that has existed for almost as long as the science of Archaeology, “Salting” or the act of planting modern, fake or non-contextual artifacts has and still does occur more than people may like to think. Charles Dawson’s discovery of 1912 illustrates an early act of “salting” with the case of England’s “Piltdown Man.” Piltdown man was the archaeological sensation of the time. The discovery was dubbed the "missing link" between human and ape. Piltdown Man stood unquestioned for decades until increased scrutiny in the 1930s began to raise serious questions as to its authenticity. By the 1950’s, the Piltdown Man discovery had been thoroughly dismissed as a hoax.

“Planting of points, sadly, has been going on for a very long time,” writes Matt Rowe native of Okalahoma and administrator of Arrowheads1.com. “I've seen it occur over and over. Usually it happens when there are hard feelings between people about hunting certain spots, but sometimes it can happen for other reasons also. There was someone for years going around and tossing out quickie-plier points (mostly made of obsidian) in and around local dams and reservoirs. I know who this person was, they even admitted doing it and told me that they thought they were actually doing the people a favor, giving kids something to find, etc. After I explained how harmful it could be, they stopped immediately. Don't think you're immune to being the victim of a planted modern point, you aren't. I've seen it happen time after time. Sadly, it's an epidemic that can occur anywhere.”

Hilton (left), Dawson (Right) More recently, Archaeologists in Japan were surprised when a noted amateur archaeologist was photographed planting artifacts at a Paleolithic excavation site. The photographs were subsequently published on the front page of a leading national newspaper. This act of “Salting” raised questions about archaeological practices in Japan. Often press conferences and headlines take precedence over scientific publications in the announcing of discoveries. As a result, the discoveries receive little critical scrutiny or scholarly debate before or after their announcement.

Early in 2005, fellow collector and frequent contributor to In situ Online Publication, Mr. Adam Agusti experienced firsthand the results of Salting. Adam had a long standing dispute with a couple of local artifact hunters with regards to trespassing and hunting of artifacts on property owned and maintained by his family.

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In Situ

Online Publication “Artifact Hunting At It’s Best”

Volume 2, Issue 1

IN SI·TU(ĬN SĒ'TŪ) - IN THE ORIGINAL POSITION

SALTING FIELDS - “They Planted Points” Adam had, on numerous occasions, confronted the individuals and repeatedly asked that they respect his family’s rights and refrain from artifact hunting the property. Adam writes, “My family has owned farm property in this township dating back to 1823. Back in the early 1990's my grandfather was presented the opportunity to purchase “several hundred acres” spread out through numerous fields, many contain productive sites situated on them. If a person or family owns the property, they shouldn't have to compete with anyone for hunting rights. In other words, I shouldn't have to rush out to my own property to beat trespassers to my favorite hunting sites.”

In Situ of Adam’s Slate Finds Adam writes, “The online community, where I share my finds, is what helped to open my eyes. Some people respectfully contacted me and privately urged me to seek other opinions. Surprisingly, a few went out of their way and attempted to impugn my integrity. I decided to get a second opinion from a local old time collector. It turns out the artifacts were fake. I had a pretty good idea who would take such a drastic measure and Salt my grandfather’s property.” Through a little research and with information supplied by a close friend, Adam learned that at least one of the two Artifact Hunters was claiming to have place up to 30 Reproductions in his family-owned fields. This juvenile act of Salting has likely contaminated the archaeological context of Adam’s site forever. Adam is now faced with the preverbal, needle in the haystack and may never be able to find and remove all of the Salted reproductions. In time, these reproductions will obtain the patina and age characteristics similar to the authentic ancient artifacts found on the site. Should Archaeologist in the distant future work on the site, those salted reproductions can and would lead to false interpretations.

View of Adam’s Hunting Site In the spring of 2005 after recent rains, Adam was out hunting his site and was rewarded by finding the first of several Slate Artifacts. Due to the abundance of Hardstone and Slate Artifacts found in this area, he had no reason to question its authenticity. The following day, Adam returned to finish walking the last few remaining rows and again was rewarded by finding two more Slate Artifacts.

Adam stated, “Salting of artifacts, real or reproduced, on any site is unacceptable regardless of the circumstances. To me, it makes no difference, its unethical. Whether you’re planting a real point for your son or daughter to find, or planting a big fake, just to see the look on your hunting partners face. The fact remains, it is unacceptable. When you bring unassociated materials onto a site, it is contaminated forever. I may never recover all the fakes from my grandfather’s field, especially if the guy decided to plant more.”

Surprised and excited at his good luck, Adam openly shared his finds with fellow collectors on the Internet. He posted the photos and descriptions at Arrowpack’s Discussion Board to read others comments. Several keen eyed collectors noticed telling signs that some things were not right with Adam’s Slate Artifacts.

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In Situ

Online Publication “Artifact Hunting At It’s Best”

Volume 2, Issue 1

IN SI·TU(ĬN SĒ'TŪ) - IN THE ORIGINAL POSITION

SALTING FIELDS - “They Planted Points” Then, about five years back, old Charlie came down from the mountains and came back to visit me. We sat and talked and played music all day. We talked about my collections. I showed him that Halifax and reminded him of its provenance. Charlie grinned real big, and kind of sheepish like, he says, " I throwed that down for you that day. You were in a much better mood after that- HAHAHAHA. "

Adam contacted the Authentic Artifact Collectors Association (AACA) and offered to donate the Salted reproductions he had found. The AACA has graciously agreed to accept the donation. It is believed that the AACA will plan to use these modern reproductions as an educational tool by displaying the items at future AACA sponsored events.

“So, people have both good and bad motivations when they salt artifacts onto a location. All in all, it is a bad practice that can blur or alter the archaeological record. Certainly the practice of Salting can be abused by greedy folks or by those looking for fame. Salting artifacts is destroying the accurate provenance of the artifact. The next time you find a really nice relic laying on the ground- think about those who put it there- and hopefully, it was prehistorically placed in situ, not just the good intentions of a friend or loving relative!”

Salted Reproductions

For all who love this hobby, we hope everyone can continue to enjoy hunting for those elusive stone implements used and discarded by the ancients. Weather if for recognition, deceit or good intentions, Salting can be a problem for all interested in Ancient Artifacts. If you are lucky enough to find an artifact of exceptional quality or rarity, it might be advantageous to receive a second opinion. Doing so might surprise you and be the result of another case of Salting.

Adam is thankful to his fellow collectors. “I'll always be upset that someone has that much hatred for another hunter. By the same token I'm glad I was able to pull through this incident and share this story with others because there are many lessons to be learned. Many of my friends supported me through this entire incident and think I handled it in an honorable manner. I even made several new friends who came out of the woodwork to offer friendship and condolences,” states Adam. Mr. Cliff Jackson, current president of the AACA, shared an experience he had many years ago. Cliff recounts a story about an old friend named Charlie. Charlie and Cliff had gone horseback riding on a trail through the Old Shocco grounds between Warren and Franklin Counties in North Carolina, some 20 years back. While taking a break and discussing what it must have been like in the area some 5000 years ago, Cliff shuffled his feet, and under his left foot found an Archaic Halifax arrowhead. Cliff writes, “Well,” I hollered, picked it up and then crowed all day- about how it was the "arryhead gods" were looking down on me that day! 17

If you suspect a case of Salting, please contact the AACA.

If you have a questionable artifact and would like to obtain a second opinion, please contact Alex Przygoda of Jackson Galleries.


In Situ

Online Publication “Artifact Hunting At It’s Best”

Volume 2, Issue 1

IN SI·TU(ĬN SĒ'TŪ) - IN THE ORIGINAL POSITION

Found by: Anthony Havens - Illinois

Photos by: Anthony Havens

This point was found in Monroe county IL and was papered by Rogers as a Dalton, Breckenridge. It is 2 15\16” long by 7\8” wide. I’m not sure, but I think the material is either heat treated Burlington or Creasant Quarry. - Anthony Havens

Dalton Breckenridge Early Archaic 18


In Situ

Online Publication “Artifact Hunting At It’s Best”

Volume 2, Issue 1

IN SI·TU(ĬN SĒ'TŪ) - IN THE ORIGINAL POSITION

Found by: Anthony Havens - Illinois

Photos by: Anthony Havens

This 4 inch Adena was found

in Monroe Co, IL. It's made from Burlington Chert and is very well made like most Adena(s). Adena - Late Archaic to Woodland

- Anthony Havens

The drill was found in Monroe Co, IL on the same gravel bar as the Adena. I do not know the material or age, but it's neat. - Anthony Havens 19


In Situ

Online Publication “Artifact Hunting At It’s Best”

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IN SI·TU(ĬN SĒ'TŪ) - IN THE ORIGINAL POSITION

Found by: Rhonda Allen - Texas

Shown on Cover This Dalton was a creek find on a beautiful day in January. My wife and I hunt this creek from time to time and have recovered many points from it.

It was found as you see it in the photos; laying flat out bigger than Dallas, as we say in Texas. We had only found one other point that day, a field grade Gary, when my darlin' wife happened upon this piece. Apparently it fell out of the bank with the recent rains and was waiting to be rescued. Greg Perino and Dwain Rogers have papered this piece, but neither could identify the material. The Dalton is 4 1/4" long and was found 01/22/05 by Rhonda Allen in Lamar County, TX. Dalton - Early Archaic

Photos by: Darrell Allen

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- Darrell Allen


In Situ

Online Publication “Artifact Hunting At It’s Best”

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IN SI·TU(ĬN SĒ'TŪ) - IN THE ORIGINAL POSITION

Found by: Larry - Oregon

Photos by: Larry

April of 2005

This is the first Columbia River Plateau I had found. Note that the point is a “flake” point and is only worked on one side. I do not know the material and would not want to make a guess. Columbia River Plateau was found in April of 2005 along the Columbia River in Columbia Co, OR. - Larry Columbia Plateau - Classic to Historic 21


In Situ

Online Publication “Artifact Hunting At It’s Best”

Volume 2, Issue 1

IN SI·TU(ĬN SĒ'TŪ) - IN THE ORIGINAL POSITION

Found by: Larry - Oregon

This Columbia River Plateau was found in May of 2005 along the Columbia River in Columbia Co, OR. The point was knapped asymmetrical and is not damaged. I do not know the material. - Larry Photos Photosby: by:Larry Larry

I'm guessing that this point is a Wallula. I found it in July of 2005 along the Columbia River in Columbia Co, OR. This point was exposed after a large cargo ship caused enough of a wake to wash it out of the lose sand and gravel (I had been by the spot where it was found only 15 minutes earlier). - Larry Columbia Plateau - Classic to Historic

Wallula - Developmental to Historic 22


In Situ

Online Publication “Artifact Hunting At It’s Best”

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IN SI·TU(ĬN SĒ'TŪ) - IN THE ORIGINAL POSITION

Found by: Michael Dolcini - California Photos by: Michael Dolcini

This is a shot of an area we hunted in July 2005 Sierra Nevada Mountains in California, elevation 7500'. This is a Paleo site that has produced some nice artifacts. Believe it, or not, the snow had only been gone a few weeks.

The site is littered with basalt flakes and tools. I don't often pick up these artifacts unless they have an interesting form. You could literally fill a bucket with scrapers and gravers. Shown in situ is an old basalt tool with a possible "spoke-shave" and burinated points. After looking at it we returned it to the soil. I always practice a little "catch and release" with artifacts, as well as fish.

Found July 13, 2005

This is the only actual point of the day. A Lake Mojave that has been worn smooth due to thousands of years of exposure to the weather extremes of the Sierra Nevada. It undoubtedly tumbled down hill from its original resting place. - Michael Dolcini

Lake Mojave - Paleo to Early Archaic 23


In Situ

Online Publication “Artifact Hunting At It’s Best”

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IN SI·TU(ĬN SĒ'TŪ) - IN THE ORIGINAL POSITION

Found by: Michael Dolcini - California Photos by: Michael Dolcini

This is a site that we walked on June 24th, again in the Sierra Nevada Mountains of California. The target of our search was the plateau in the center of the photo. The elevation at this location was 5500'.

Found June 24, 2005

This broken basalt stemmed point was just lying there, warming in the sun. When the snow melts and the earth thaws objects are sometimes displaced by the movement of the rocky soil. Every year we return to the same places, never failing to find something new. After looking at it for a few minutes, it was quietly replaced in its age old resting spot. - Michael Dolcini 24


In Situ

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IN SI·TU(ĬN SĒ'TŪ) - IN THE ORIGINAL POSITION

CHINA - Sanxingdui Archaeological Site

Courtesy Sanxingdui Museum Guanghan Sichuan, China

Photos by: Sanxingdui Museum

Sacrificial Cache Pit #1 - Gold, Jade, Bronze, Elephant Ivory

The scientific discoveries and excavations at Sanxingdui unveiled the history of the Ancient Shu culture from a period ~5,000 years ago (Early - Mid. Archaic Period). The Sanxingdui remains are composed of several large areas, covering 12 square-km in total and has since been identified as the Archaic Capital City of the Shu Civilization. No.1 sacrificial cache pit was discovered on the 18th of July 1986 on the site of a local Brick Factory by two local workers. Jade dagger-axes and jade tablets were exposed by workers while digging for clay. On the 24th of July, the modern cultural layer was cleared out by archaeologists and the tamped-down earth was exposed in the pit. On the 25th and 26th, bronze dagger-axes, with features of the early Shang Dynasty were unearthed. These were followed by a gentle bronze image with long hair, a helmet and facemask. On the 27th of July the shining of gold attracted the workers attention. The archaeologists quickly covered the place with the earth and arranged for the site to be guarded by armed police.

Inventory: Over 400 pieces were recovered; including a goldscepters, gold masks, bronze images, jade tablets, jade daggeraxes and ivories.

Shang Dynasty

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Visit: http://www.sxd.cn/maine.asp


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IN SI·TU(ĬN SĒ'TŪ) - IN THE ORIGINAL POSITION

CHINA - Sanxingdui Archaeological Site

Courtesy Sanxingdui Museum Guanghan Sichuan, China

No.2 sacrificial cache pit was discovered on the 14th of August in 1986. Just when the excavations of No.1 pit was nearing completion. Once again, it was located by workers from the Brick Factory. This time they had uncovered a bronze image. Pit No. 2 is located in the southeast, between 20m and 30m from No.1 pit. The archaeologists quickly moved protect pit No. 2. On 20th of August, the excavation to No.2 pit began. After ten day's work, the archaeologists found the hardened clay layer (similar to the No.1 pit). There were also traces of digging by people during earlier times, but fortunately, they hadn't penetrated very far; otherwise, the treasures would have disappeared long ago. After clearing out the tamped-down earth, they found lower jaw of an animal-faced sculpture and ivory tusks began to appeared. The remaining objects in No.2 pit can be divided into three stories: in the upper story, there were some 60 elephant tusks; the middle story was mainly filled with bronze wares; in the lower story, there were plant ashes, charcoal powder and small bronze wares.

Photos by: Sanxingdui Museum

Inventory: Over 800 pieces were recovered; including gold objects, a bronze standing man, bronze vertical-eyed mask, large sacred trees, numerous bronze images and a large number of jade objects. Sacrificial Cache Pit #2 - Jade, Bronze, Gold, Elephant Ivory

Shang Dynasty

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In Situ

Online Publication “Artifact Hunting At It’s Best”

Volume 2, Issue 1

IN SI·TU(ĬN SĒ'TŪ) - IN THE ORIGINAL POSITION

Found in: Sanxingdui Archaeological Site

Courtesy Sanxingdui Museum Guanghan Sichuan, China

Tablets

Daggers

13.7” Long

14.0” Long

16.7” Long

14.6” Long

Celts

17.6” Long

4.6” OD 10.5” Long

21.3” Long

14.0” Long 4.7” Long

7.7” Long

7.9” Long

8.7” Long

Shang Dynasty

5.6” OD

7.0” OD

27

JADE ARTIFACTS


In Situ

Online Publication “Artifact Hunting At It’s Best”

Volume 2, Issue 1

IN SI·TU(ĬN SĒ'TŪ) - IN THE ORIGINAL POSITION

Found in: Sanxingdui Archaeological Site

Courtesy Sanxingdui Museum Guanghan Sichuan, China

Tablet 3.9” Long

Bronze Head

Bronze Head

16.8” Tall

19.1” Tall

Ornament 9.0” Long

Scepter

Tiger 4.6” Long

56.3” Long Over 4 1/2 Feet Long

Shang Dynasty

28

GOLD ARTIFACTS


In Situ

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IN SI·TU(ĬN SĒ'TŪ) - IN THE ORIGINAL POSITION

Found in: Sanxingdui Archaeological Site

Courtesy Sanxingdui Museum Guanghan Sichuan, China

16.7” Wide 16.6” Tall

18.0” Tall

9.6” Tall

54.3” Wide Over 4 1/2 Feet Wide 21.2” Tall

32.5” Tall

Shang Dynasty

29

BRONZE ARTIFACTS


In Situ

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IN SI·TU(ĬN SĒ'TŪ) - IN THE ORIGINAL POSITION

Found by: Mike Menichetti - Arkansas Photos by: Mike Menichetti

This nice Adena is a personal find, found along the shore of the White River in Carroll Co., Arkansas - Mike Menichetti

Adena - Late Archaic to Woodland

Found by: Lori Menichetti - Missouri

Photos by: Mike Menichetti

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This large tool was found by Lori Menichetti along the edge of Table Rock Lake Barry Co., Missouri - Mike Menichetti


In Situ

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IN SI·TU(ĬN SĒ'TŪ) - IN THE ORIGINAL POSITION

Found by: Jeff Stafford - Arkansas Photos by: Jeff Stafford

I was hunting in N. W. Arkansas and found this Dickson at the 6’ level (from the top of the bank, right at the silt line.

Found September 10, 2005

The material is Burlington Chert and measures 2 1/4” long. The Dickson has an Impact Fracture and was reused as a scraper or gouge. - Jeff Stafford

Adena Dickson - Late Archaic to Woodland 31


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IN SI·TU(ĬN SĒ'TŪ) - IN THE ORIGINAL POSITION

Found by: Jeff Stafford - Arkansas Photos by: Jeff Stafford

I found this Graham Cave in N.W. Arkansas on October 6, 2005. It measures 21/2 inches long. The material is Boone Chert

I still can’t believe it was laying there on top of the ground. It will be a long time before I forget that one. It's been a very hot, dry summer with not many artifacts found. So finding this one made my day!! - Jeff Stafford

Graham Cave Early to Middle Archaic 32


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IN SI·TU(ĬN SĒ'TŪ) - IN THE ORIGINAL POSITION

Found by: ASC - Washington

We went to our favorite creek and the water was very low. It looks like someone had moved the rocks around. This Rabbit Island was kicked out from where someone had moved a rock. It’s funny how they had missed it. Also found a very nice scraper (shown to the right of point in the large photo). It was upside down. I didn't pay any attention to it until after I took a photo of the point. Then I realized what it was. The scraper was made from Petrified Bog. The Rabbit Island is made from Petrified Wood and measures 1.55” long. - ASC Rabbit Island – Middle to Late Archaic

Photos Photos by: ASC by: ASC

33

[Private Land, Surface Collected]


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IN SI·TU(ĬN SĒ'TŪ) - IN THE ORIGINAL POSITION

Found by: ASC - Washington

Found September 9, 2005 [Private Land, Surface Collected]

There were lots of flake showing and the wind was wicked. We found a few broken blades. No matches from my frame. Also found several decent whole scrapers. Sorry no pictures just picked them up and stuffed them in the bag. We found this little Rabbit Island. It has a small tip fracture, but still a nice find. The material is Petrified Bog and measured 1.12” in length. - ASC Photos by: ASC

34

Rabbit Island – Middle to Late Archaic


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Found by: ASC - Washington Photos by: ASC

We spent around 3 hrs at our next location and found several broken points, one 3/4 complete, red jasper (First View Style) Blade which exhibits “Killer” flaking (no photo). We did get photos of this outstanding point.

Found September 9, 2005

This Desert General, shown in situ, was a nice find. The material is a Bluish-Grey Chert and measures 0.88" in length. - ASC

[Private Land, Surface Collected] Desert General - Classic to Historic 35


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IN SI·TU(ĬN SĒ'TŪ) - IN THE ORIGINAL POSITION

Found by: Rick Burton - Texas

Photos by: Rick Burton

Bill Shepard (Wisconsin) and myself found these points while hunting gravel bars on the Bosque River in Bosque Co. Texas. - Rick Burton

Found March 31, 2005 Visit http://www.burtonsartifacts.com

36


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IN SI·TU(ĬN SĒ'TŪ) - IN THE ORIGINAL POSITION

Found by: Garry Weinmeister - Okalahoma

Photos by: Garry Weinmeister

Found September 11, 2005

I found this little Pelican Lake point on September 11, 2005. It is made from petrified (silicified) wood and measures 11/4 inches long. - Garry Weinmeister

Pelican Lake - Middle Archaic to Transitional 37


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IN SI·TU(ĬN SĒ'TŪ) - IN THE ORIGINAL POSITION

Found by: Ezra Smith - Okalahoma

Ezra found this Large Knife on September 11, 2005. It is made from Kay Co Flint and measures 4” in length. - Park Waller

Found September 11, 2005

Visit http://arrowheadhunters.freeservers.com

Photos by: Park Waller

Ezra found this nice Gary on September 11, 2005. We are unsure of the material and measures 3 1/4” in length.

- Park Waller

Gary - Late Archaic 38


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IN SI·TU(ĬN SĒ'TŪ) - IN THE ORIGINAL POSITION

Found by: Ezra Smith - Okalahoma

Found July 4, 2005

Ezra found this large Knife on July 4, 2005. It is made from Kay Co Flint and measures 6 1/4” in length. - Park Waller Visit http://arrowheadhunters.freeservers.com Photos by: Park Waller

39


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IN SI·TU(ĬN SĒ'TŪ) - IN THE ORIGINAL POSITION

Found by: Park Waller - Okalahoma

San Patrice Transitional Paleo Well here's a nice San Patrice (not certain). It is made from Kay Co Flint. Today was another good day. Ezra ended up with 4 points including a nice Gary and 4 inch blade (see page 38). Visit

Photos by: Park Waller

http://arrowheadhunters.freeservers.com

Found September 11, 2005

I'm not sure what to call this point. I thought it was kind of funny that it was next that old pop can. - Park Waller

Photos by: Park Waller

40


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IN SI·TU(ĬN SĒ'TŪ) - IN THE ORIGINAL POSITION

Found by: Matt Jones - Okalahoma Photos by: Matt Jones

Shown In Situ is a photo of two points found September 7, 2005 in Okalahoma. I marked the point and then came back to take the photo. I took the in situ photo and then was shocked, once I moved it; there was another point right beside it. I never saw it until moved the bigger point (even though it seems to be there as plain as day once you look in the photo). - Matt Jones 41


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IN SI·TU(ĬN SĒ'TŪ) - IN THE ORIGINAL POSITION

Found by: Chuck Newcomb - Illinois

Fou

Photos by: Chuck Newcomb

I walked my creek in St. Clair County, Illinois today. Past few weeks have seen it bone dry. But a few days ago we had some good rains. Here’s what I saw (20yds apart). I thought I had hunted that spot clean!

Found September 17, 2005

Found September 18, 2005

A nice point with a damage to the base. Found in St. Clair County, Illinois - Chuck Newcomb

42


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IN SI·TU(ĬN SĒ'TŪ) - IN THE ORIGINAL POSITION Visit http://www.texasarrowheads.com

Found by: Travis Cobb - Texas Photos by: David Crain

Found September 18, 2005

We found one point that wasn't broken today in Matagorda County, Texas. I believe the point type is a Cupp or Motley made of semi-translucent Edwards flint. A little hard to see this one at first, look close enough and you'll see it. - David Crain Cupp or Motley - Archaic to Woodland 43


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IN SI·TU(ĬN SĒ'TŪ) - IN THE ORIGINAL POSITION

Found by: Don Buhl - Virginia

Photos by: Don Buhl

This point was found March 29, 2002 on the shoreline of the York River in Virginia. I believe it a “Morrow Mountain.” The material is Quartzite.

Morrow Mountain - Middle Archaic

This point was found September 18, 2005 on the shoreline of the York River in Virginia. - Don Buhl

44


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IN SI·TU(ĬN SĒ'TŪ) - IN THE ORIGINAL POSITION

Found by: Bob Davidson - Kamloops British Columbia Canada

This nice little Kamloops Horizon, side-notched was found in a Bear Track. It is made from Basalt. - Bob Davidson Visit http://www.bcandusaartifacts.com

Photos by: Bob Davidson

This Kamloops Horizon, side-notched is also made from Basalt. - Bob Davidson 45


In Situ

Online Publication “Artifact Hunting At It’s Best”

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IN SI·TU(ĬN SĒ'TŪ) - IN THE ORIGINAL POSITION

Found by: Bob Davidson - Kamloops British Columbia Canada

This nice Clovis (or Folsom?) is a rare find. It is missing the tip. It has a nice deep flute on one side. It’s the first one ever found in my area. - Bob Davidson Photos by: Bob Davidson

Visit http://www.bcandusaartifacts.com

Shown in-situ is a Cascade Leaf blade. - Bob Davidson

Cascade - Paleo to Early Archaic 46


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IN SI·TU(ĬN SĒ'TŪ) - IN THE ORIGINAL POSITION

Found by: Robert J. Davis - Kentucky

Photos by: Robert J. Davis

I had a pretty good hunt on a tobacco farm in the bluegrass region of Kentucky on Sunday, 10/23/2005. I took my camera along and was able to take some photos. Shown in-situ is a little birdpoint made from high grade Boyle Chert - Robert J. Davis

Shown in-situ is a Brewerton made from pink Chert. - Robert J. Davis

Brewerton Middle Archaic 47


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IN SI·TU(ĬN SĒ'TŪ) - IN THE ORIGINAL POSITION

Found by: Robert J. Davis - Kentucky

Photos by: Robert J. Davis

Above is another shot of the tobacco farm. To the right is an early Archaic, ear point. Shown below is hafted scraper made from colorful, Carter Cave flint. - Robert J. Davis

48

These points were found in Kentucky on 10/23/2005.


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Found by: Robert J. Davis - Kentucky Photos by: Robert J. Davis

Above is weak stemmed, Woodland point. - Robert J. Davis

Above is Mississippian, triangular point made from high grade Carter Cave flint. - Robert J. Davis

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IN SI·TU(ĬN SĒ'TŪ) - IN THE ORIGINAL POSITION

Found by: Chris Capley - Kentucky

Shown in situ and in-hand is a super Bifurcated base, Kirk.

Photos by: Chris Capley

Kirk Bifurcated - Early to Middle Archaic

- Chris Capley

A nice little triangle point (Madison) I found earlier this spring. - Chris Capley

Madison Mississippian 50


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IN SI·TU(ĬN SĒ'TŪ) - IN THE ORIGINAL POSITION

Found by: Eric Price - Arkansas

Shown in situ is a nice Hardin found by Eric Price in Arkansas. - Steve Colbert

Photos by: Steve Colbert

Hardin - Early Archaic 51


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IN SI·TU(ĬN SĒ'TŪ) - IN THE ORIGINAL POSITION

Submitted by: Joshua Ream

This is a Pre-Colombian pipe uncovered on a construction site, in the Southern Caribbean.

The second picture is the pipe along with another pipe from the site. While rare, forward facing effigy pipes do exist in some places. - Joshua Ream

Photos by: Joshua Ream

52


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Online Publication “Artifact Hunting At It’s Best”

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WESTCOAST ARROWHEADS & BC ARTIFACTS Visit us at: http://www.bcartifacts.com

Professional Artifact Authentication, Services and Supplies P.O. Box 1005 Mount Sterling, Kentucky 40353

Visit us at:

Tel: 800-466-3836 • Fax: 859-499-0160

http://www.jacksongalleries.com

Look to Tom and David Davis for the finest quality relics, reliable authentication & much, much more! Over 50 years of combined experience!

P.O. Box 676 Visit us at:

Stanton, KY 40380

http://www.tomdavisartifacts.com

Tel: (606) 663-2741• fax: (606) 663-4370

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IN SITU - ONLINE PUBLICATION Volume 2, Issue 1

Submitting Photos In Situ welcomes all contributions from our fellow enthusiasts. If you wish to share your personal finds with our readers, please feel free to submit to In Situ.

Accepting Photos and Images for In Situ Online Publication Volume 2, Issue 2 - April 2006 Please include: •

In Situ Photo

In Hand Photo

Cleaned-up Photo

Descriptions of the find and hunt

All images should be digital quality and submitted in JPEG format. •

Please do not divulge too much detail related to your favorite hunting spot. In Situ may not have time to remove specific details, so what you submit may appear as submitted.

In Situ Publication will try to respect the rights of the collectors who submit to this publication. However, if you authorize or submit information to In Situ, we reserve the right to use and present the information as we see fit. All descriptions and images submitted for publication use become the property of In Situ Publication.

Contributors will be cited in our publication for their finds and images. Email to In Situ: Insitu@comcast.net

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