Interpreting the spatial distribution of lithic artifacts from the RLF Paleoindian site (DdJf-13), Thunder Bay Region, Northwestern Ontario
Abstract
This thesis explores the intra-site organization of Late Paleoindian, Lakehead
Complex populations at the RLF site (DdJf-13), located east of Thunder Bay, Ontario.
Situated upon a relic Lake Minong beach ridge, the RLF site
s modest lithic composition
and simple depositional context offered an ideal scenario for interpreting the organization
of activities during a relatively brief occupational event.
The analysis and interpretation of the RLF site was conducted using a
combination of spatial analytical techniques and ethnoarchaeological/archaeological case
studies. This resulted in the identification and interpretation of eight distinct cluster subzones
situated within two larger zone areas.
The results of this thesis suggest that the RLF site represents a brief Late
Paleoindian occupation during which early stage biface production was conducted. Lithic
reduction took place in distinct flint knapping areas and was oriented towards the
production of transportable biface blanks. Additionally, the southern portion of the site
exhibited evidence of cutting/scraping activities, likely associated with either food
preparation or hide working. Further spatial patterning, in correlation with the results
from near surface geophysics (NSG), provided evidence for the possible presence of a
built structure and hearth focused lithic distribution in the northern portion of the site.
The RLF site analysis is a valuable case study for the application of intra-site
spatial analysis on Boreal forest sites, as well as those utilizing CRM derived data sets.
Furthermore, it provides a starting point from which future studies of Lakehead Complex
site organization and use can be compared.