An Archaeological Survey of Two Borrow Pit Areas: Tract 1 (Gabby's Pit) and Tract 3 (Doorn Bo's Pit) in South East Jefferson County Texas

Abstract

An archaeological survey of two borrow pit areas (41.3 acres) in southeast Jefferson County, Texas was performed by Brazos Valley Research Associates (BVRA) on September 30, 2006 and October 14, 2006. This investigation involved a 100% Pedestrian Survey using metal detectors and shovel testing and an examination of exposed soil profiles created by heavy equipment during previous sand removal at Tract 1 (Gabby’s Pit). The entire project area is located on a Chenier Ridge that overlooks the Gulf of Mexico to the south. This ridge is part of a beach system that is described as Quaternary Continental, and it dates to the Pleistocene Epoch. The shovel testing revealed firm clay at the surface and a lens of “shell hash” between 35 cm and 45 cm at Tract 1 and 70 cm and 90 cm at Tract 3. This shell represents the remains of an ancient beach. No prehistoric or historic sites were identified, and no artifacts were collected.