Perspectives on Middle Woodland at the Millennium: |
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In late July 2000 the Center for American Archeology hosted a gathering
of scholars interested in the Middle Woodland/Hopewell cultural period
(ca. 2000 years ago). The shared goal of the conference was to exchange
ideas and examine current thinking regarding the Hopewell and
non-Hopewell from diverse geographic locations, theoretical approaches,
and topical interests. Over 50 top Middle Woodland researchers from across the mid-continental U.S., Canada, and England convened at Pere Marquette State Park to discuss these issues and assess directions for future research. Conference attendees also toured some of the most important Middle Woodland archeological sites in the world—located here in the lower Illinois River valley, a region world-famous for complex archeological resources. A featured highlight of the conference was the keynote address presented by Dr. Robert Chapman, Professor of Archaeology at Reading University, England. The lecture entitled Death and Exchange: A View from the Periphery challenged scholars to reconsider archeological research from a global perspective. |
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Conference organizers, Dr. Jane E. Buikstra, CAA Research Chair and
Distinguished Professor at University of New Mexico, and Dr. Jodie
O’Gorman, former CAA Director of Research, expect the conference results
to be published in 2001. |
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NATIONAL RESEARCH GRANT AWARDED:
GEOMORPHOLOGIST TO INVESTIGATE PREHISTORIC EARTHWORK CONSTRUCTION
Kampsville, IL
The Center for American Archeology has been awarded a prestigious National Science Foundation Research Grant for a project examining the geoarcheology of a built Middle Woodland landscape. This exciting new research project investigates the function and cultural meaning of Middle Woodland earthworks built by populations inhabiting the Lower Illinois Valley from approximately 50 BC to AD 250.
Under the direction of CAA geomorphologist Dr. Julieann Van Nest, Dr. Jane E. Buikstra and Dr. Douglas K. Charles, the project will consist of a systematic study of the geologic materials used in the construction of earthworks; thus, providing valuable information needed to determine their structural and symbolic significance. The study will include sourcing of various types of sediments and soils used in construction, testing of a newly proposed construction method hypothesis and locating additional earth structures in the vicinity.
Studied by CAA researchers for over 40 years, Middle Woodland earthworks in the Lower Illinois Valley have stimulated much speculation as to their function and meaning. Past evidence shows careful planning and selection of special soils for building materials. The geoarcheological investigations conducted by Van Nest will help to verify this planning and selection process, helping to better understand the cultural significance of these 2,000 year old structures. The project is currently underway and will continue through 1998. |
