Geoarchaeology
Archaeological sites are connected to the physical landscape in important ways. A thorough understanding of geology supplies specialized knowledge that enhances site interpretation. For pre-colonial sites, geology helps archaeologists understand complex soil conditions and the sources and properties of lithic artifactual materials. At historic-period sites, geological expertise can assist in evaluating landscape modification. We have applied geological testing technologies to a variety of archaeological studies—with excellent results. Our staff geoarchaeologists bring New England-based expertise to the location, identification, and interpretion of pre-colonial archaeological sites.
Featured Project
Norwalk River Railroad Bridge Replacement
The historically significant railroad swing bridge (1896), which carries Metro-North trains over the Norwalk River in southwest Connecticut, is being replaced. Multiple designs are being considered for the replacement, all of which impact a variety of terrestrial parcels on both sides of the river. AHS conducted Geoprobe testing of land areas to determine archaeological sensitivity.
Other Project Example
Adriaen’s Landing
For a large-scale redevelopment project in Hartford, AHS used state-of-the-art Geoprobe borings, along with more conventional machine-dug trenches, to identify buried archaeological resources and collect geological and palynological data to reconstruct the paleoenvironment and associated human lifeways.