Negative Impression of Probable Smudge Pit (Post Mold 16) at the White Springs Site
- Title (English):
- Negative Impression of Probable Smudge Pit (Post Mold 16) at the White Springs Site
- Collection:
- Onöndowa'ga:' (Seneca) Haudenosaunee Archaeological Materials, circa 1688-1754
- Photographer:
- Kurt A. Jordan
- Date:
- 2010-07-20
- Site:
- White Springs
- Location:
- White Springs House 4
White Springs Post Mold 16
White Springs - File Name:
- ws065.jpg
- Work Type:
- maps, diagrams, excavation photos
- Materials/Techniques:
- digital photograph
- Description:
- This image shows the "negative impression" of a probable smudge pit feature (Post Mold 16) at the White Springs site. A negative impression is what remains after all cultural soil has been scooped out, and it shows what the original edge of the pit looked like when it was constructed by the site's residents. Although this stain appeared to be the size and shape of an interior support post when first observed, it actually proved to contain a large amount of burned corn cob and cupule fragments. This strongly suggests the feature was used for one or more intentionally smoky fires, perhaps as a smudge pit for smoking hides. The feature was found within the footprint of House 4, but it seems unlikely that an intentionally smoky fire would have been kindled indoors. The pit may have been used before the house was constructed, or after it had gone out of use.
Kurt Jordan, Archaeologist - Source:
- Previously unpublished
- Format:
- Image
- Rights:
- This item is protected by copyright, and the copyright holder is their photographer. Cornell is providing access to the materials for research and personal use. The written permission of any copyright and other rights holders is required for distribution, reproduction, or other use that extends beyond what is authorized by fair use and other statutory exemptions. Responsibility for making an independent legal assessment of an item and securing any necessary permissions ultimately rests with persons desiring to use the item. For questions, comments, or feedback about this collection please contact Kurt Jordan in the Cornell Institute of Archaeology and Material Studies with any questions or information about these materials.