Publications in Salvage Archeology, 4: Molstad Village

The Molstad Village report, by J. J. Hoffman, provides a comprehensive analysis of the Chouteau Aspect (Extended Coalescent Horizon), an important group of complexes that foreshadow the historic period within the Middle Missouri area. The generic "La Roche" development, which includes the Chouteau Aspect, is the most widespread of the archeological horizons presently recognized within the Middle Missouri. At the same time, the constituent complexes have been thought to be characterized by a remarkable degree of uniformity wherever found. Paradoxically, La Roche has been among the most often discussed but least understood developments within the region. To a degree, Hoffman has confirmed our preconceptions but, in addition, he has succeeded in distinguishing firm taxonomic units and has added significant increments of space and time. He has broadened and, concurrently, sharpened major cultural units that are essential to an understanding of Middle Missouri prehistory.