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The interpretation of 17th century sites through plow zone surface collections: Examples from St. Mary’s City, Maryland

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Abstract

Many 17th century sites in the Chesapeake have undergone surface disturbance from agriculture or other causes. Despite the disturbance, these surface layers contain vitally important data on site age, layout, and abandonment. Agricultural disturbance must be viewed as a transformation that can be studied and controlled. This paper explores the effects of agriculture on sites and presents several examples of the quality of cultural patterning data that can be derived from plowed surfaces. It argues that this data is essential for a full interpretation of any 17th century site.

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. Historic St. Mary’S City, St. Mary’S City, Maryland, USA, 20686

    Timothy B. Riordan

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  1. Timothy B. Riordan
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Riordan, T.B. The interpretation of 17th century sites through plow zone surface collections: Examples from St. Mary’s City, Maryland. Hist Arch 22, 2–16 (1988). https://doi.org/10.1007/BF03374085

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