Debitage Graphs and Archaic Settlement Patterns in the Arkansas Ozarks

Abstract

Flakes of bifacial reduction from a replication experiment and four prehistoric sites are compared on a bivariate graph. Maximum flake length values and striking plat form angles of the debitage samples are plotted, demonstrating a bifacial manufac turing trajectory. Methods of flake replication and measurement are discussed. Segments of the manufacturing trajectories of flake samples are a basis for assign ing Archaic sites to a dichotomous settlement model of base camps versus temporary-use sites. This paper presents one aspect of an Archaic-period settlement-subsistence model of the western Ozarks of Arkansas. The basic goal is to differentiate Archaic sites into categories of site function based on analysis of debitage from bifacial stone tool manufacture.