SouthPeninsulaSiteSurveys.pdf

The document is a collection of archaeological site survey reports for multiple sites at Fort Belvoir in Fairfax County, Virginia, prepared by MAAR Associates, Inc. for the Virginia Division of Historic Landmarks Research Center for Archaeology between 1987 and 1992. The surveys document prehistoric and historic sites across the military installation, involving shovel testing and surface artifact collection at various locations. The sites range from small campsites to military trenches, with most being prehistoric in nature and located near the Potomac River. The surveys were conducted in preparation for potential development or construction activities, with recommendations for further testing and assessment of archaeological resources.

The site surveys provide detailed environmental and geographical information, including physiography, water sources, soil conditions, site dimensions, and artifact collections. Most sites are located on terraces, ridges, or slopes near the Potomac River, with elevations ranging from 10 to 129 feet above sea level. Artifact collections typically include quartz and quartzite debitage, flakes, points, and fire-cracked rocks. The cultural affiliations span from prehistoric periods (including Archaic and unknown periods) to early 20th-century industrial sites. The reports consistently recommend additional archaeological investigations prior to any ground-disturbing activities to preserve potential archaeological resources, reflecting a systematic approach to cultural resource management at the military installation.