Lithic Analysis and Activity Patterns at Labras Lake

Abstract

Lithic assemblages from four small Late Archaic (1850-800 BC) settlements at the Labras Lake site (ll-S-299) on the American Bottom, Illinois were examined and compared with the chipped stone artifacts associated with the Late Woodland (AD 900) and Mississippian (AD 1235) components at the site in an investigation of changes in stone tool utilization and lithic technology. The distribution of stone tools, debitage, and debris was examined, refitted artifacts were plotted, and microwear analysis was conducted in order to define areas of tool manufacturing and repair, determine tool function, and isolate activity areas. Activities associated with each component were then summarized and compared.questions of culture, and, third, with respect to the history of peoples. (Holmes 1894:121).