POLLEN AND MACROFLORAL ANALYSES AT EDGE OF THE CEDARS PUEBLO

Twenty-six pollen and twenty-two macrofloral samples were analyzed from
428a700, Edge of the Cedars Pueblo, in southeast Utah. These samples
represent a variety of contexts, including three midden areas, three rooms,
several vessels and groundstone, and isolated features and work spaces.
Analyses focuses on identification of subsistence items, as well as
identification patterns of activities involving specific plants.
Identification of both cultigens and native plants was important in this
study of subsistence. Occupation of the Edge of the Cedars Pueblo has not
been firmly established with respect to exact occupation dates. It does
appear, however, that the terminal Pueblo I (AD 850-900) saw a strong
occupation of this site. An occupational hiatus follows, and a strong
resettlement occurs during late Pueblo II (AD 1025-1125). Although tree ring
dates were obtained for the 1200s, there is no other evidence of
occupation at this time, such as pottery. Therefore, it is possible that
some remodeling occurred at this time, but no reoccupation. Several architectural
complexes or "unit" houses typical of Pueblo II and Pueblo III
Anasazi construction are noted at Edge of the Cedars Pueblo. In addition,
pithouses and a "great kiva" or "regional ceremonial center" are recorded
(Winston Hurst, personal communication). Analysis of pollen and macrofloral
remains focused on interpretations of subsistence.