nys arch e2

Early Archaic

from 8000 to 6000 BCE and follows the Paleoindian period. characterized by increasing forest cover and adaptation to post glacial environments. People shifted toward a broad-spectrum subsistence strategy including hunting, fishing, and gathering. Toolkits became more regionally distinct, especially in projectile point styles. Settlement patterns were still highly mobile but began to show repeated seasonal use of certain locations.
Associated with warming climate and forest expansion in NYS
Includes diagnostic point types like bifurcated base points
Evidence often found in river valleys and upland camps
Sites commonly found along rivers and upland hunting zones

Bifurcated Base Points

early stone projectile points with a split or notched base. earliest diagnostic artifacts of the Early Archaic period. used as spear tips with atlatls rather than bows and their distinctive base shape may have helped with hafting onto wooden shafts. important chronological markers for archaeologists studying early Holocene occupations.
Common in Early Archaic sites across NYS
Often made from local materials like Onondaga chert
Found in sites indicating seasonal hunting camps

Neville Phase

Early Archaic cultural phase, defined by n-type projectile points, which have broad blades and distinctive stems. phase reflects adaptation to increasingly forested environments. People relied on diverse food sources, including small game and plant resources. Archaeological sites often show repeated seasonal occupation. tools suggest adaptation to forest hunting conditions rather than open tundra
Identified through Neville projectile points
Represents regional variation within Early Archaic NY
Often associated with riverine and wetland environments

Vergennes Phase

Early Archaic cultural manifestation. associated with v-style pp that are thick and often crudely flaked. phase may represent some of the earliest adaptations after glacial retreat. Sites are frequently located near former glacial lake margins. The material culture suggests highly mobile hunter-gatherer groups.
Early post-glacial occupation in NY region
Linked to retreating ice and changing landscapes
Tools tend to be thick and less refined

Perkiomen Point

Early Archaic projectile points characterized by a narrow stem and broad blade. found in the Mid-Atlantic and sometimes in southern New York contexts. points were likely used with atlatl systems for hunting. Their presence indicates regional interaction and movement of peoples. help archaeologists track cultural connections across regions.
Occasionally found in southern NY archaeological sites
Reflect interaction between NY and Mid-Atlantic groups
Typically made from locally available stone

Lamoka Phase

Middle Archaic cultural tradition centered in the Finger Lakes region of New York. known for its emphasis on fishing, small game hunting, and plant gathering. ex. Ll site, show evidence of seasonal base camps. Toolkits include small stemmed projectile points and groundstone tools. reflects a relatively stable adaptation to local environments.
Strongly associated with Finger Lakes region
Evidence of fishing economies in NYS
Includes small stemmed points and groundstone tools

Vosburg Phase

Middle Archaic cultural variant defined by distinctive projectile point styles and localized adaptations. Sites show continued reliance on hunting and gathering with seasonal mobility. demonstrates regional diversity within Middle Archaic lifeways. overlap chronologically with other Middle Archaic traditions.
Regional variation within NY Middle Archaic
Identified through specific point styles
Reflects localized adaptation strategies

Sylvan Lake Phase

Late Archaic cultural adaptation shows increasing sedentism compared to earlier periods. People made greater use of aquatic resources and local plant foods. Toolkits include a variety of projectile points and groundstone implements. Sites often indicate longer-term occupations.
Associated with Late Archaic settlement stability in NY
Increased use of aquatic environments
Evidence of longer site occupation

Brewerton Phase

Late Archaic cultural tradition known for its distinctive side-notched projectile points. reflects adaptation to forested environments with diverse subsistence strategies. Sites often include evidence of fishing, hunting, and plant processing.
Diagnostic Brewerton side-notched points
Widely distributed across NYS
Associated with broad-spectrum subsistence

Bushkill Phase / Complex

refers to a Transitional Archaic cultural . characterized by broad-bladed pp and new technologies like steatite vessels. reflects reduced mobility and increased site reuse. arch evidence suggests growing social complexity. bridge between Archaic and Woodland periods.
Includes Broad Spear tradition in NY region
Associated with steatite (soapstone) use
Marks transition toward Woodland culture

Orient Phase

Late/Terminal Archaic coastal adaptation characterized by specialized exploitation of marine resources. Sites often include shell middens and evidence of fishing. Projectile points are typically narrow and stemmed. demonstrates increasing regional specialization and trade.
Found in coastal NY and Long Island
Strong use of marine shell resources
Reflects specialized coastal adaptation

Meadowood Phase

beginning of the Early Woodland period, known for its burial practices, including cremation and the use of grave goods. Trade networks expanded significantly during this time. Diagnostic Meadowood points are often finely made and found in ritual contexts. reflects increasing social and ceremonial complexity.
Associated with cremation burials in NYS
Linked to early long-distance trade
Includes finely crafted projectile points

Frost Island Phase

Woodland period cultural manifestation, associated with increasing sedentism and more complex settlement patterns. Pottery becomes more common and varied during this time. Sites rtf’[]bn show evidence of structured habitation areas. This phase reflects continued cultural development in the Woodland period.
Woodland period phase in NYS
Increased pottery use
Evidence of structured settlements

Kipp Island Phase
The Kipp Island Phase represents a Woodland adaptation in New York with growing social complexity. It includes evidence of long-distance trade and interaction. Settlement patterns show more permanent or semi-permanent occupation. Material culture includes pottery and specialized tools. This phase reflects continued cultural evolution in NY prehistory.
Associated with trade networks in NY
Increasingly stable settlements
Woodland period cultural development

Canoe Point Phase

Woodland period, associated with increased reliance on aquatic resources. Sites often include evidence of fishing and water-based transportation. Pottery and other artifacts reflect regional styles. shows adaptation to riverine and lake environments.
Strong river/lake adaptation in NYS
Evidence of fishing and canoe use
Includes Woodland pottery traditions

River Phase

Woodland period reflects settlement patterns focused along major waterways. People relied heavily on fishing, transportation, and trade via rivers. Sites often contain pottery and evidence of repeated occupation. highlights the importance of rivers in NY lifeways.
River-centered settlement in NY
Evidence of fishing economies
Important for trade and movement

Snook Kill Phase

Late Archaic to Transitional Archaic defined by SK pp, sites show evidence of seasonal occupation and diverse subsistence. reflects changing technologies and social organization. bridge earlier Archaic and later Woodland cultures.
Identified through Snook Kill points
Transitional period in NYS
Reflects shifting technologies

Bifurcated Base Points

Early Archaic pp characterized by a split or notched base, earliest diagnostic artifacts found in ny after the Paleoindian period. typically used with atlatls for hunting medium and large game, distinctive base helped secure the point to a shaft. use them as key indicators of Early Archaic occupation.
Common in Early Archaic sites across NYS
Often made from Onondaga chert
Found in river valleys and upland hunting camps

Perkiomen Point

stemmed projectile points originating in the Mid-Atlantic but occasionally found in southern New York, narrow stems and broad blades suited for hafting. were likely used with atlatls for hunting. suggests interaction or movement between regions. They are useful indicators of cultural connections beyond NYS.
Found in southern NY contexts
Reflect Mid-Atlantic influence
Indicate trade or migration patterns

Neville/Stanley Point

Early Archaic pp with broad blades and squared stems. associated with forest hunting adaptations in the Northeast. show deliberate shaping. likely used for hunting deer and other woodland animals. Their distribution helps define Early Archaic phases like Neville.
Found in Early Archaic NY sites
Associated with Neville Phase
Indicate woodland hunting strategies

Stark / Morrow Mountain Point

Early Archaic stemmed pp characterized by straight to slightly expanding stems. represent adaptation to forest environments after the Ice age used with atlatls for hunting. Their presence reflects widespread Early Archaic traditions.
Found in Early Archaic NY assemblages
Represent early forest adaptation
Part of broader eastern US traditions

Normanskill Point

Middle Archaic pp named after a site in Ny. have a narrow stem and elongated blade. considered regionally diagnostic for NY archaeology. They were used for hunting with atlatls. Their presence helps date Middle Archaic sites.
Named after Normans Kill, NY
Diagnostic of Middle Archaic period
Common in eastern NY sites

Otter Creek Point

associated with the Laurentian Archaic tradition in the Northeast. large, broad-bladed points with a distinctive shape. tools were likely used for heavy duty hunting tasks. reflect adaptation to forest and riverine environments.
Linked to Laurentian Archaic in NY
Found in northern NY regions
Represent large game hunting tools

Rossville Point

Late Archaic pp found in coastal New York and New Jersey. stemmed points adapted for use in marine and estuarine environments. reflect specialized coastal subsistence strategies. likely used for fishing and hunting coastal animals. presence indicates regional adaptation to shoreline environments.
Found in coastal NY (Long Island)
Associated with marine resource use
Reflect coastal adaptation strategies

Snook Kill Point

diagnostic of the Late Archaic to Transitional Archaic period in New York. typically have a broad blade and contracting stem. found in river valley sites and represent a shift in technology and subsistence practices. Archaeologists use them to identify transitional cultural phases.
Found in eastern NY river valleys
Linked to Snook Kill Phase
Reflect Transitional Archaic changes

Genesee Point

broad bladed pp associated with Late Archaic traditions. often large and robust, may have been used for hunting large game. Their size and shape reflect the Broad Spear tradition. useful for identifying Late Archaic sites.
Found in western and central NY
Part of BS tradition
Associated with large game hunting

Susquehanna Broad Points

large, wide projectile points characteristic of the Transitional Archaic period. associated with the Broad Spear tradition. often thick and heavily flaked. likely used for hunting and possibly woodworking.
Common in Transitional Archaic NY sites
Associated with Broad Spear tradition
Indicate reduced mobility and heavier tools

Vestal Point

Early Woodland pp found in New York. typically stemmed and smaller than earlier Archaic points. reflect the transition to Woodland lifeways. likely used with atlatls, though bows appear later. presence helps identify Early Woodland sites.
Found in Early Woodland NY contexts
Associated with Meadowood Phase
Reflect changing technologies

Snyders Point

large pp associated with the Hopewell Interaction Sphere. found in ceremonial or burial contexts. reflect long-distance trade and cultural exchange. craftsmanship suggests symbolic as well as functional use. They appear in some New York sites influenced by Hopewell culture.
Linked to Hopewell Interaction Sphere
Found in ceremonial contexts
Indicate long-distance trade connections

Jacks Reef (General)

pp Late Woodland tools associated with increased use of the bow and arrow. points typically smaller than earlier spear points.
Common in Late Woodland NY sites
Associated with bow and arrow technology
Includes multiple subtypes

Jacks Reef Corner Notched

points are a subtype of Jacks Reef projectile points.have distinctive notches at the corners of the base. used as arrowheads rather than spear tips. reflect increased efficiency in hunting smaller game. presence marks Late Woodland occupations.
Found across NY Late Woodland sites
Diagnostic arrow point type
Indicates shift from atlatl to bow

Jacks Reef Pentagonal

subtype characterized by a five-sided shape. small and finely made. points were used as arrowheads in the Late Woodland period. shape makes them easily identifiable. are common in many NY archaeological sites.
Distinct pentagonal shape
Used as arrowheads
Found widely across NY

Levanna

points are triangular pp associated with Late Woodland Iroquoian groups. typically unnotched and relatively large. used with bows for hunting and warfare. widespread presence reflects population growth and settlement expansion. key diagnostic artifacts in NY archaeology.
Associated with Iroquoian cultures in NY
Used as arrowheads
Common in village sites

Madison

points are small triangular pp from the Late Woodland period. smaller than Levanna points. used as arrowheads for hunting small game. size reflects increased efficiency in bow technology. among the most common artifacts in late prehistoric NY sites.
Very common in NY Late Woodland sites
Small, efficient arrow points
Associated with intensified hunting

Onondaga Chert

high quality sedimentary stone widely used by prehistoric peoples in New York State for toolmaking. found primarily in central and western New York and was heavily quarried. fine grain and predictable flaking made it ideal for pp and cutting tools. This material was also traded over long distances, showing its value. Many diagnostic NY artifacts are made from Onondaga chert.
Primary lithic material in NY archaeology
Found in quarries across central/western NY
Widely used for projectile points and blades

Jasper

a hard, fine grained stone often used for toolmaking and found in various colors. typically considered a non local material. presence at sites suggests long distance trade or travel. carefully crafted due to the material’s quality. provides evidence of interaction between NY and other regions like Pennsylvania.
Not native to most of NY → indicates trade
Found in projectile points and tools
Links NY groups to Mid-Atlantic regions

Slate

a metamorphic stone commonly used in groundstone tool production. it was shaped and polished rather than flaked. include points, knives, and ceremonial objects. durability made it useful for specialized tools. associated with Late Archaic and Woodland periods.
Used for ground and polished tools in NY
Common in Late Archaic contexts
Includes ceremonial and functional objects

Banded Slate

visually distinctive form of slate with layered coloration. used for decorative or ceremonial objects rather than everyday tools. associated with prestige items. appearance made it desirable for trade and symbolic use. made from banded slate are often finely crafted.
Used for ornamental objects in NY
Indicates social or symbolic significance
Found in ceremonial contexts

Steatite (Soapstone)

soft stone easily carved into bowls and containers. widely used during the Transitional Archaic period for cooking before widespread pottery adoption. material retains heat well, making it ideal for food preparation. use marks an important technological shift.
Common in Transitional Archaic NY sites
Used to make early cooking vessels
Precedes widespread pottery use

Obsidian

a volcanic glass known for its sharp edges and excellent flaking properties. When discovered at NY sites, it indicates long distance trade or exchange networks. valued for their sharpness and rarity.
Non-local material → indicates long-distance trade
Rare in NY archaeological sites
Considered a prestige or exotic material

Minnesota Pipestone

soft red stone traditionally used to make ceremonial pipes. originates from quarries in the Midwest, far from New York. presence in NY sites indicates participation in long distance trade networks. Objects made from this material were likely used in ritual or social contexts. reflects widespread cultural connections across regions.
Imported material found in NY sites
Used to make ceremonial pipes
Indicates long-distance exchange networks

Ground Slate Points

made by grinding and polishing slate rather than flaking it. associated with Late Archaic and Woodland cultures. may have been used for hunting or fishing. smooth surfaces distinguish them from chipped stone tools. represent a different technological approach to toolmaking.
Found in NY Late Archaic/Woodland sites
Made through grinding instead of flaking
May be linked to fishing or specialized hunting

Small Stemmed Points

general category of pp with narrow stems for hafting. common in Middle Archaic contexts in New York. used with atlatls for hunting. size and shape made them versatile tools. often found at seasonal camp sites.
Common in Middle Archaic NY sites
Associated with Lamoka Phase
Used for hunting with atlatls

Broad Bladed Tools

large stone implements with wide cutting edges. associated with the Late Archaic and Transitional periods. likely used for heavy duty tasks such as butchering or woodworking. Their size reflects changes in subsistence and tool use.
Found in Transitional Archaic NY contexts
Used for heavy-duty processing tasks
Associated with BS tradition

Western Onondaga Cache Blades

large, finely made stone blades found in groups or caches. made from high-quality Onondaga chert. may have been stored for future use or placed as ritual offerings. Their size and craftsmanship suggest they were valuable items. associated with ceremonial or social significance.
Found in caches in western NY
Made from high-quality Onondaga chert
Possibly ceremonial or stored resources

Obsidian Blade

sharp cutting tool made from volcanic glass. When found, they indicate long-distance exchange networks. prized for their sharpness and rarity. may have had both practical and symbolic value.
Rare artifact in NY archaeology
Indicates long-distance trade
Highly valued for sharpness and rarity

Birdstone

small, carefully carved stone objects shaped like birds, commonly found in the Eastern Woodlands, made from polished slate or other fine-grained stone. exact function is debated, but they are often interpreted as ceremonial or symbolic objects. Some archaeologists suggest they may have been attached to atlatls as weights or decorations. craftsmanship indicates they held cultural or spiritual significance.
Found in Archaic period sites in NYS
Often made from polished slate
Likely ceremonial or symbolic rather than purely functional

Boatstone

elongated, symmetrical stone objects shaped somewhat like a canoe or boat. typically ground and polished, suggesting careful manufacture. function is not fully understood, but they may have been atlatl weights or ceremonial items. associated with Archaic period cultures. standardized shape suggests shared cultural meaning.
Found in Archaic NY contexts
Possibly used with atlatls
May have symbolic or ritual significance

Plummet-Stone

teardrop shaped stone objects with a grooved or notched top. interpreted as fishing weights due to their shape and wear patterns. may also have had ceremonial or decorative uses. found near waterways in New York. Their dual possible function reflects the importance of fishing in Archaic lifeways.
Common near rivers and lakes in NY
Likely used as fishing weights
May also have symbolic uses

Tubular Pipes

straight, cylindrical smoking pipes made from stone materials. associated with ritual or ceremonial smoking practices. appear in Archaic and Woodland contexts. may have been used in social or spiritual gatherings. Their presence suggests early forms of ceremonial behavior.
Found in NY Archaic and Woodland sites
Associated with ritual smoking
May indicate social or ceremonial gatherings

Tubular Smoking Pipes

specific category of t pipes used for smoking substances in ceremonial contexts. made from stone such as slate or pipestone. found in burial or ritual settings. use suggests the importance of smoking in spiritual or social practices.linked to broader Eastern Woodlands traditions.
Found in ceremonial contexts in NY
Often associated with burials
Reflect ritual or social practices

Copper

earliest metals used by prehistoric peoples in North America, cold hammered rather than smelted, meaning it was shaped without melting. from Great Lakes sources, especially around Lake Superior. found in burial contexts, suggesting symbolic or status value. reflects long-distance trade and technological innovation.
Imported from Great Lakes region into NY
Used for tools, ornaments, and ceremonial objects
Often found in burial contexts

Old Copper Culture

prehistoric tradition centered in the Great Lakes region culture dates to the Archaic period and influenced surrounding regions, including New York. created tools such as axes, knives, and fishhooks from it . appear through trade rather than local production. culture represents one of the earliest uses of metal in North America.
Influence seen in NY through trade networks
Dates to Archaic period
Known for utilitarian copper tools

Copper Axes

heavy tools made from hammered native c. used for woodworking tasks such as cutting trees or shaping wood. typically found in burial or cache contexts. Their production required significant skill and effort. held both practical and symbolic importance.
Found in NY burial and cache sites
Used for woodworking tasks
Indicate skilled metalworking

Copper Projectile Points

spear or dart tips made from hammered copper. used for hunting or possibly ceremonial purposes. relatively rare and often associated with trade. Their softness compared to stone may have limited practical use. likely held symbolic or prestige value.
Rare in NY archaeological sites
Likely traded from Great Lakes region
May have been ceremonial rather than practical

Copper Fish Hooks

small, shaped tools used for catching fish. demonstrate the adaptation of copper technology to subsistence activities. often associated with water-based environments. Their presence reflects the importance of fishing in Archaic lifeways. show technological innovation in toolmaking.
Found near lakes and rivers in NY
Reflect importance of fishing
Example of copper used for daily subsistence

Copper Needles

thin, pointed tools used for sewing or working with hides. demonstrate fine craftsmanship and careful shaping of copper. relatively rare and often found in burial contexts. presence suggests clothing production and hide processing. may also have had symbolic value.
Found in NY burial contexts
Used for sewing hides or textiles
Reflect detailed metalworking skill

Copper Spirals

decorative objects made by twisting copper into coiled shapes. likely used as personal ornaments such as hair decorations or jewelry. found in burial sites. Their presence indicates social status or identity. reflect the aesthetic use of copper beyond tools.
Found in NY burials
Used as ornaments or jewelry
Indicate social or symbolic significance

Copper Beads

small, shaped pieces of copper used for decoration. often strung into necklaces or sewn onto clothing. commonly found in burial contexts. presence indicates participation in trade networks. reflect both decorative and social functions.
Common in NY burial sites
Used for personal adornment
Indicate long-distance trade

Copper Breast Plate

large, flat ornamental object worn on the chest. associated with ceremonial or high-status individuals. rare and typically found in burial contexts.indicate strong connections to broader Eastern Woodlands traditions. size and craftsmanship suggest symbolic importance.
Rare but significant in NY archaeology
Found in ceremonial or burial contexts
Indicates high status or social identity

Burial Mound

earthen structure built over one or more graves. associated with Woodland period cultures, especially those influenced by Adena and Hopewell traditions. less common than in the Midwest but still present. contain grave goods such as tools, ornaments, and ceremonial objects. reflects organized labor and social or ritual significance.
Found in some NY Woodland contexts
Associated with Adena-Hopewell influence
Contain grave goods and ceremonial items

Cremation Burials

burning of human remains before burial. associated with the Meadowood Phase, ashes are often placed in pits or containers along with grave goods. may reflect specific beliefs about death and the afterlife. represents a distinct shift from earlier burial practices.
Common in Meadowood Phase in NYS
Often include grave goods
Indicates changing spiritual beliefs

Ossuary

burial feature that contains the remains of multiple individuals. secondary burials, meaning bones were reinterred after initial decomposition. common in later prehistoric periods. suggest collective burial practices and community identity. reflect complex social or ritual behaviors.
Found in some NY Woodland contexts
Contain remains of multiple individuals
Reflect group burial practices

Flexed Burials

placing the body in a tightly bent or fetal position. common in Archaic period sites may have symbolic meaning related to rebirth or cosmology. Flexed burials are often simple and lack elaborate grave goods.
Common in Archaic NY sites
Body placed in fetal-like position
Usually simple burial with few grave goods

Extended Burials

laying the body flat, usually on its back, with limbs extended. common in later periods, including the Woodland period in New York. burials may include grave goods such as tools, pottery, or ornaments. may also indicate changing beliefs about death.
Common in Woodland NY contexts
Body laid flat and extended
Often includes grave goods

Killed Artifacts

objects intentionally broken or damaged before being placed in a grave. interpreted as a way of symbolically “releasing” the object’s spirit. frequently found in Meadowood burial contexts. objects may include projectile points or tools. reflects complex ritual behavior.
Common in Meadowood Phase burials
Objects intentionally broken before burial
Reflect spiritual or ritual beliefs

Vinette 1 Pottery

earliest known ceramic type in New York State, dating to the Transitional Archaic/Early Woodland period. thick, crude, and poorly fired compared to later ceramics. surfaces are often cord-marked, reflecting the use of cord-wrapped paddles during manufacture. used for cooking and storage. marks the important technological shift from stone vessels to pottery.
Earliest pottery in NYS
Associated with Meadowood Phase
Thick, crude, cord-marked ceramics

Ford Net-marked

pottery is characterized by impressions that resemble net patterns on the vessel surface. impressions were likely made using netting or similar materials during construction. appears in Woodland period contexts. reflects both functional and decorative aspects of pottery-making. texture may have improved grip or heat distribution.
Found in NY Woodland sites
Distinct net-like surface impressions
Combines function and decoration

Wickham Incised

pottery features decorative patterns carved or incised into the surface of the vessel. designs are often geometric and carefully executed. associated with Woodland period cultures. incising reflects increased attention to aesthetics and symbolism. may also indicate group identity or cultural affiliation.
Found in NY Woodland contexts
Features carved decorative patterns
Reflects symbolic or cultural expression

Clearview Stamped

pottery decorated with stamped patterns pressed into the clay surface. designs were created using carved tools or paddles. appears during the Woodland period. stamped patterns can vary widely, indicating different stylistic traditions. reflects increasing complexity in ceramic production.
Found in NY Woodland sites
Created using stamped designs
Shows regional stylistic variation

Coil-wound Pottery

made by stacking and shaping coils of clay to form a vessel. one of the most common methods of pottery construction in prehistoric North America. widespread during the Woodland period. often smoothed over but may still be visible. method allows for larger and more complex vessel shapes.
Primary pottery-making method in NY
Common in Woodland period
Allows construction of large vessels

Steatite Pots

containers carved from soapstone rather than made from clay. used before pottery became widespread in New York. vessels were durable and resistant to heat, making them useful for cooking. associated with the Transitional Archaic period. use declined as ceramic technology improved.
Found in Transitional Archaic NY sites
Made from soapstone instead of clay
Precursor to ceramic pottery

Hopewell Interaction Sphere

widespread network of trade and cultural exchange during the Middle Woodland period. connected regions across eastern North America, including New York State. network, materials like copper, marine shell, and exotic stones were exchanged. influence is seen in artifacts such as Snyders points and ceremonial items. reflects increasing social complexity and long-distance interaction.
Reaches into NY during Woodland period
Brings exotic materials into NY sites
Associated with ceremonial and burial practices

Adena-Hopewell

related mound building cultures centered in the Ohio River Valley. influence extended into New York through trade and shared cultural practices. visible in burial styles and exotic artifacts. known for elaborate ceremonial systems and earthworks. interaction with NY groups reflects expanding social networks.
Influence seen in NY burial practices
Associated with mound-building traditions
Connected through long-distance trade

Poverty Point

major archaeological site and cultural system located in present Louisiana. dates to the Late Archaic period and is known for its extensive trade networks. Materials, such as exotic stones, have been found far from the site. In New York, indirect connections suggest participation in wide-ranging exchange systems. demonstrates how far-reaching prehistoric trade networks could be.
Located far from NY but connected through trade
Indicates continent-wide exchange networks
Shows early long-distance interaction

Marine Shell

from ocean environments used as raw material for tools and ornaments. In New York, marine shells are not locally available in inland areas. presence indicates trade with coastal groups. used to make beads and decorative items. held symbolic or ceremonial significance.
Found in inland NY sites → indicates trade
Often used for ornaments
Linked to coastal exchange networks

Shell Beads

small, shaped pieces of shell used for decoration and exchange. strung into necklaces or used in clothing. In New York archaeology, they are commonly found in burial contexts. presence indicates both trade and social identity. may also have functioned as a form of currency or value storage.
Found in NY burial sites
Used for adornment and exchange
Reflect social identity and trade

Alumette Island

significant archaeological location in the Ottawa River region. served as an important hub for trade and interaction in the Northeast. exchanged goods and ideas. influence extended into regions including New York. represents a key node in prehistoric exchange networks.
Important trade hub connected to NY
Located along major travel routes
Facilitated exchange of goods and culture

Morrison Island

site in the Ottawa River system. known for its role in trade and cultural interaction during the Archaic period. show connections to multiple regions, including New York. site reflects repeated occupation and exchange activity. highlights the importance of waterways in prehistoric trade.
Linked to NY through trade networks
Located along major river systems
Evidence of repeated occupation and exchange

Highly Mobile Lifestyle

frequent movement across the landscape to exploit seasonal resources. moved between hunting, fishing, and gathering areas. Camps were typically short-term and left limited archaeological evidence. allowed people to adapt to changing environmental conditions. reflects a flexible and survival-focused way of life.
Common in Early Archaic NYS
Seasonal movement between resource areas
Small, temporary campsites

Restricted Wandering

shift from wide-ranging mobility to more defined territorial movement. emerges during the Middle to Late Archaic periods. Groups still moved seasonally but within a smaller, familiar area. change reflects increased knowledge of local environments. may also indicate growing population density and territoriality.
Seen in Middle/Late Archaic NY
Movement limited to specific regions
Reflects increased territorial behavior

House Patterns

archaeological evidence of structured dwellings, such as post molds or hearth arrangements. visible during the Woodland period. indicate longer-term or repeated occupation of specific sites. suggest increasing sedentism and social organization. provide insight into community layout and daily life.
Found in Woodland period NY sites
Evidence of semi-permanent structures
Indicates more stable settlement patterns

Lamoka Lake Site

key archaeological site in the Finger Lakes associated with the l Phase of the Middle Archaic period. revealed evidence of fishing, hunting, and seasonal occupation. provides important information about subsistence and settlement patterns. best-known Archaic sites in NYS.
Located in Finger Lakes region
Key site for understanding L Phase
Evidence of fishing-based subsistence

Atlatl

spear throwing device used to increase the force and distance of a thrown projectile. primary hunting technology during the Archaic period. works by extending the arm, allowing hunters to throw darts with greater speed and accuracy. useful for hunting large game such as deer. eventually replaced by the bow and arrow in the Woodland period.
Main hunting technology in Archaic NYS
Used with dart points (not arrows)
Replaced by bow and arrow in Woodland period

Ulu

curved cutting tool traditionally associated with Arctic cultures but sometimes found in broader archaeological contexts. Typically used for processing food, especially cutting meat and hides. In tools may appear as specialized cutting implements. design allows for efficient rocking motion during use. reflects adaptation to food processing needs.
Used for cutting and food processing
Rare or indirect presence in NY archaeology
Similar tools used for hide and meat preparation

Coe Axiom

principle in archaeology stating that pp styles change over time in a predictable way. concept allows archaeologists to use point styles as chronological markers. useful for dating Archaic and Woodland period sites. by comparing point shapes, archaeologists can determine relative age without absolute dating methods. fundamental to typology and seriation in archaeology.
Used to date NYS sites based on projectile points
Helps establish chronological sequences
Key principle in artifact typology

Laurentian Archaic

regional cultural tradition found in the northeastern woodlands, including parts of northern New York. dates to the Middle Archaic period and is associated with forest and riverine environments. People relied heavily on hunting, fishing, and gathering in these ecosystems. Diagnostic artifacts include large pp like Otter Creek points and groundstone tools. reflects adaptation to northern forest conditions.
Found in northern NY regions
Associated with Otter Creek points
Emphasis on forest and river resources

Duck Bay Phase

regional Archaic cultural manifestation identified in the Northeast. reflects localized adaptation to specific environmental conditions. associated with riverine and wetland resource use. Artifact assemblages show variation from other Archaic traditions. highlights the diversity of lifeways within the Archaic period.
Regional variation within NY Archaic
Linked to wetland and river environments
Shows diversity in tool assemblages

Squawkie Hill Phase

late Archaic cultural phase identified in western New York. known for distinctive pp styles and settlement patterns. Sites often show evidence of hunting, fishing, and plant use. reflects adaptation to local environmental conditions. contributes to understanding regional diversity in NY archaeology.
Located in western NY
Associated with Late Archaic period
Reflects localized adaptation strategies

Batten Kill Phase

archaeological phase identified in eastern New York. associated with river valley environments and resource exploitation. Artifacts include pp and other tools typical of the Archaic period. Sites often show repeated seasonal occupation. reflects adaptation to specific ecological zones.
Found in eastern NY river valleys
Evidence of seasonal camps
Reflects regional environmental adaptation

Broad Spear Tradition

set of large, wide-bladed projectile points found during the Transitional Archaic period. tools are typically thick and heavily flaked, suggesting heavy-duty use. associated with reduced mobility and more localized resource use. may have been used for hunting, woodworking, or butchering. tradition marks an important technological and cultural shift before the Woodland period.
Common in Transitional Archaic NY sites
Includes Susquehanna Broad Points
Reflects heavier tools and reduced mobility

Middlesex

cultural phase or mortuary pattern associated with the Archaic period in the Northeast. linked to burial practices that include grave goods and ritual behavior. materials may appear in burial contexts. connected with early ceremonialism. reflects increasing social complexity during the Archaic period.
Associated with burial practices in NY region
Includes grave goods and ritual elements
Reflects early ceremonial behavior

Small Stemmed (Category)

general class of pp with narrow stems for hafting. common in the Middle Archaic period in New York. used with atlatls for hunting game. size and shape made them versatile tools. category includes several specific point types like Lamoka points.
Common in Lamoka Phase sites in NY
Used for atlatl-based hunting
Found in seasonal camp contexts

Broad Bladed (Category)

lithics or pp with wide cutting surfaces. associated with the Late Archaic and Transitional periods. part of the Broad Spear Tradition. size suggests use in heavy-duty tasks. reflect changes in subsistence and tool function.
Found in Transitional Archaic NY sites
Associated with heavy-duty use
Includes Susquehanna-type points

Transitional Archaic (Reinforced Concept)

represents a shift between Archaic and Woodland lifeways, includes the introduction of pottery and steatite vessels. Populations became less mobile and more regionally focused. Broad-bladed tools are common during this time. period reflects increasing social and technological complexity.
Marks shift toward Woodland period in NY
Includes early pottery like Vinette 1
Associated with Broad Spear Tradition

Ossuary (Reinforced Concept)

burial feature containing the remains of multiple individuals. represents a communal approach to burial practices. appear more frequently in later prehistoric periods. often involve secondary burial, where bones are reinterred. practice reflects complex social and ritual behaviors.
Found in NY Woodland contexts
Contains multiple individuals
Reflects communal burial traditions

Steatite (Reinforced Concept)

or soapstone, is a soft stone used to carve bowls and containers. used in the Transitional Archaic period in New York. vessels were important for cooking before pottery became common. material is heat-resistant and durable. use marks a key technological transition.
Found in Transitional Archaic NY sites
Used for cooking vessels
Precedes ceramic pottery

Jasper (Reinforced Concept)

high quality stone used for making tools and pp. not native to most of New York, indicating trade. presence in NY sites shows connections to regions like Pennsylvania. important indicator of long-distance interaction.
Non-local material in NY
Indicates trade networks
Used for projectile points

Marine Shell (Reinforced Concept)

obtained from coastal environments. shells are not locally available. presence indicates trade with coastal groups. used to make beads and ornaments. reflect both economic and symbolic exchange.
Found inland → indicates trade in NY
Used for beads and ornaments
Linked to coastal exchange networks

Copper (Reinforced Concept)

native metal used by prehistoric peoples for tools and ornaments. obtained through trade from the Great Lakes region. shaped by hammering rather than smelting. often appear in burial contexts. reflect both technological innovation and social significance.
Imported into NY from Great Lakes
Used for tools and ornaments
Often found in burials