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 ð€€€ 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.