Central States Archaeological Journal July 1958

Central States Archaeological Journal July 1958 Vol. 5, No. 1

This issue of the Central States Archaeological Journal offers a wide-ranging look at North American archaeology, prehistoric cultures, artifact studies, and the challenges faced by collectors and researchers. The articles combine archaeological research with practical discussions of artifact identification, making this volume a valuable historical resource for students, researchers, avocational archaeologists, and collectors interested in the prehistoric cultures of North America.

One of the major articles, “Exit of the Hopewell Peoples” by Walter L. Wadlow, examines the decline and disappearance of the Hopewell cultural tradition. The Hopewell people are particularly well known for their elaborate earthworks, burial mounds, ceremonial objects, and extensive trade networks that connected communities across large portions of eastern North America. This article provides an early perspective on the archaeological questions surrounding changes in Hopewell culture and the people associated with it.

Additional archaeological research includes Dan F. Morse’s preliminary notes on a Red Ochre mound at the Morse Site, offering observations concerning mound construction, burial practices, and the archaeological evidence associated with the Red Ochre cultural tradition. James B. Griffin contributes important information on radiocarbon dates from the Crable Site, illustrating the growing importance of scientific dating techniques in establishing archaeological chronologies and understanding prehistoric occupation.

Several articles focus specifically on Native American stone artifacts. B. W. Stephens discusses boat-stones, while Byron W. Knoblock examines fragments of bannerstones and their significance as an important cultural trait. Owen Hammond’s article on the monolithic stone axe provides another detailed look at prehistoric stone tool manufacture and artifact forms. Together, these articles offer useful information for identifying, studying, and understanding artifacts found throughout the central and eastern United States.

Collectors will also find Cameron Parks’ “Learn to Recognize Frauds” especially interesting. The article addresses the problem of fraudulent or altered artifacts and emphasizes careful observation and knowledge when evaluating archaeological specimens. Parks also contributes “Indian Relic Quota!” and an illustrated relics feature showcasing additional examples of Native American artifacts.

Rounding out the issue are journal publication information, council news, and editorial material documenting the activities and interests of the archaeological community of the period. With coverage of Hopewell culture, Red Ochre archaeology, radiocarbon dating, burial mounds, boat-stones, bannerstones, stone axes, artifact authentication, and Native American relics, this issue provides an informative snapshot of archaeological research and artifact collecting during an important period in the development of North American archaeology.

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