Fall River County Archaeological Sites and Prehistoric Rock Art
Fall River County is home to a vast array of archaeological treasures that provide a window into the ancient human history of the region. Over several decades, numerous sites have been recognized for their information potential—their ability to yield critical data about past cultures—leading to their inclusion on the National Register of Historic Places (NRHP). These designations occurred in waves, with sites added in 1982, 1993, 2005, and 2016.
To protect these fragile resources from vandalism or degradation, the specific coordinates of most sites are not disclosed to the general public, although their general regions are known. Many of these locations are tied to the Prehistoric Rock Art of South Dakota Multiple Property Submission (MPS), a thematic group of sites that share common historical and artistic characteristics.
[ไม่มีภาพประกอบ]Key Facts
- NRHP Listing: Sites were added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1982, 1993, 2005, and 2016.
- Primary Locations: The majority of listed sites are located near Edgemont, with others near Hot Springs.
- Site Types: Common features include rock art, rock shelters, and cave sites.
- Cultural Associations: Sites are linked to various eras, including the Middle Archaic (McKean complex), Late Archaic, and Late Prehistoric periods, as well as the Ponca.
- Unique Finds: Some sites contain inscriptions from the 1874 Black Hills Expedition.
Archaeological Diversity in Fall River
The archaeological landscape of Fall River County is characterized by a mix of open-air sites and protected natural formations. The prevalence of rock shelters (natural overhangs that provided protection from the elements) and cave sites has helped preserve delicate evidence of human habitation and artistic expression.
Rock Art and Inscriptions
A significant portion of the registered sites are dedicated to rock art. This includes "pecked" art, where designs were carved into the stone, and painted rock art. One notable site, 39FA86, is particularly unique as it contains both prehistoric art and inscriptions left by members of the 1874 Black Hills Expedition.
Cultural and Temporal Periods
The sites span a wide chronological range. For instance, site 39FA395 is associated with the Middle Archaic period, specifically the McKean complex, and features "Pecked Realistic" rock art. Other sites are attributed to the Late Archaic and Late Prehistoric periods, illustrating the long-term evolution of human presence in the area.
Summary of Notable Registered Sites
| SITS ID | NRHP Number | Locality | Associations/Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| 39FA86 | #93000804 | Edgemont | Plains Village; 1874 Black Hills Expedition inscriptions |
| 39FA88 | #93001040 | Edgemont | Ponca; rock shelter and cave site |
| 39FA395 | #93001047 | Edgemont | Middle Archaic (McKean complex); "Pecked Realistic" art |
| 39FA691 | #93001059 | Edgemont | Late Prehistoric rock art |
| 39FA1010 | #93001063 | Hot Springs | Late Archaic rock art |
Frequently Asked Questions
Why are the exact locations of these sites kept secret?
The specific locations are not disclosed to prevent the sites from being damaged or looted, ensuring that their information potential is preserved for future scientific study.
What is the "Prehistoric Rock Art of South Dakota MPS"?
It is a Multiple Property Submission (MPS) used by the National Register of Historic Places to group related sites that share similar characteristics and historical significance across the state.
What is the difference between pecked and painted rock art?
Pecked rock art is created by physically chipping or carving into the stone surface, while painted rock art involves applying pigments to the rock face.
Which towns are closest to these archaeological sites?
The vast majority of the listed sites are located near Edgemont, with a smaller number of sites located near Hot Springs.
What is the McKean complex?
The McKean complex is associated with the Middle Archaic period and is characterized by specific tool types and "Pecked Realistic" rock art styles found at sites like 39FA395.