An archaeological survey of the proposed Colliers Ferry Wetlands Recreational Area and Nature Preserve, Jefferson County, Texas

Abstract

An archaeological survey was conducted by Brazos Valley Research Associates at the site of the proposed Collier's Ferry Wetlands Recreational Area and Nature Preserve, an area of approximately 84-88 acres, on July 27-28, 1993. Funding for this project was obtained by a grant from the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department (TPWD). The project was supervised by William E. Moore, Principal Investigator, under permit number 1263 issued by the Texas Antiquities Committee (TAC). The project site was divided into two areas; a tract of 20-25 acres (Area A) to be "intensively surveyed" and a larger portion of approximately 60 acres (Area B) to be examined by a "cursory survey."

The records check at the Texas Archeological Research Laboratory (TARL) in Austin, Texas revealed a prehistoric site (41JF1) had been recorded within the boundaries of the current project area. A pedestrian survey accompanied by shovel testing and probing not only failed to locate evidence of 41JF1, but was also negative in terms of finding any previously unrecorded prehistoric sites anywhere within the area examined. In a low area just below Forest Lawn Memorial Park concrete fragments of a broken and discarded burial vault were observed and the ground showed no evidence of disturbance. This is in Area B where only a "cursory survey" was required.

No evidence of the now defunct Collier's Ferry was located. Nor were we able to find historic artifacts that could be associated with the standing structures depicted on the topographic map, Pine Forest. One structure, a pump house for Lawson Canal, is still standing. It is less than SO years of age and is not architecturally or historically significant.

It is recommended that the City of Beaumont be allowed to proceed with construction as planned for Area A adjacent to the river. Since Area B was only examined in a cursory manner it is not possible to recommend clearance until a more complete survey is conducted. The presence of an archaeologist to monitor park construction within Area A is not considered necessary. All records regarding this project have been placed in pemanent curation at TARL.