A Cross Section of Grand Canyon Archeology: Excavations at Five Sites Along the Colorado River

In the spring of 1984, five sites along the Colorado River in Grand
Canyon National Park were test excavated prior to stabilization. The
sites, four of which are in dry shelters, span 130 river miles on both
sides of the Colorado, and encompass preceramic through historic
occupations. Data from the stratified deposits were used to answer
research questions regarding changes in subsistence and technology
through time. Analyses of flotation, pollen and macrofossil samples
showed excellent preservation of materials from several canyon
microenvironments. Variations in the construction of cordage and in the
ceramic and lithic technologies related to these specific environments,
to the seasonal nature of activities at each site and to the interaction
of the inhabitants with adjacent groups.