Archeological Survey in Northeastern Death Valley National Monument

This report describes the results of an archeological clearance
survey along 61 km of the northern and northeastern boundaries of Death
Valley National Monument. The purpose of this survey was to identify
cultural resources within a right-of-way for a fence, planned for this
part of the monument boundary, in order the assess the impact of fence
constructi on on these resources. Bri ef di scussi ons of the present and
past environment and the cultural history of the survey area are
presented as background. A description of survey methods is followed by
a detailed discussion of the cultural material found. Eleven sites were
identified, including eight prehistoric and three historic sites. Of
the prehistoric sites, four are low-density lithic scatters on the
surface, lacking diagnostic artifacts. The remaining prehistoric sites
include a small sherd and lithic scatter, two rockshelters, and a large
(probable) base camp. Ceramics found at three of these latter sites
date them to the Shoshonean period (A.D. l200-contact). The three
historic sites are a small site of uncertain function, a small mining
camp, and a very large site that probably represents the historic town
of Amargosa. Isolated finds include 48 prehistoric and historic
artifacts (including a possible petroglyph), 28 rock clusters or cairns,
and two mines. The description of the cultural materials is followed by
an interpretative discussion of the nature and distribution of these
materials. Finally, the archeological significance and potential impact
of fence construction on the identified cultural resources is assessed,
and cultural resource management recommendations are presented.