An evaluation of the distribution of imported lithics within the Yazoo-Mississippi Delta during the Poverty Point period

A comprehensive analysis of imported lithics within the Yazoo-Mississippi Delta during the Poverty Point period reveals that while these materials were widespread, high-density usage was concentrated at only a few sites. Notably, Poverty Point and nearby sites exhibited significant concentrations of northern gray flints, suggesting their role as potential dissemination hubs or aggregation centers. The study, which analyzed approximately 57,000 chert artifacts from 46 sites, also found that Arkansas novaculite usage declined with distance from its source in the Ouachita Mountains, while Missouri white cherts showed a similar pattern relative to the Mississippi River. Additionally, imported materials like hematite, magnetite, and steatite were documented, indicating their broader availability but limited density at most sites.

Mitch, W. A. (2023). An evaluation of the distribution of imported lithics within the Yazoo-Mississippi Delta during the Poverty Point period. Southeastern Archaeology, 42(2), 136–154. https://doi.org/10.1080/0734578x.2023.2186766