Archaeological Excavation of the Avery Ranch Site (5PE56) on the Fort Carson Military Reservation, Pueblo County, Colorado

摘要

The site is situated on a high point along the eastern rim of Turkey Canyon. Recent excavations were confined to two architectural units, a large C-shaped structure (Structure 1) and a smaller roofed structure of polygonal shape (Structure 2). The site is a multifunctional camp, possibly representing a single major episode of occupation in the fall of the year. Four major activity areas are present of which three are architectural. A foraging economy is apparent, evidenced by massive quantities of butchered bison bone and charred seeds of wild plants. A communal bison kill near the site is suggested. Most plant seeds are of the genus Chenopodium (goosefoot). Maize is present although evidence is limited. The Avery Ranch site was occupied during the A.D. 13th century by an Apishapa (Middle Ceramic period) group. Closest cultural affinities are with Middle Ceramic populations centered in the tributary canyons on the south side of the Arkansas River in south-eastern Colorado.