An Archaeological Survey for the Bryan Towne Centre Brazos Center Pond Project in Central Brazos County Texas

Abstract

An archaeological survey for the Bryan Towne Centre, Brazos Center Pond Project, was performed by Brazos Valley Research Associates (BVRA) on May 22-25, 2007 under antiquities permit 4533. The project area consists of 10 acres and is located adjacent to Carters Creek in central Brazos County. The field survey examined the subsurface through shovel testing and probing and backhoe trenching. The surface was examined for evidence of historic sites and prehistoric artifacts in areas where the ground was disturbed. The entire project area is located in a floodplain setting consisting of sandy loam overlying firm clay between 30 cm and 80 cm below the existing ground surface, clay loam over clay between 20 cm and 30 cm, and clay at the surface. No archaeological sites were found; however, a historic iron bridge was present, having been brought to the project area in 1985 from its original location across Carters Creek. The bridge has been identified by the Texas Historical Commission (THC) as a unique example of a Warren pony truss bridge that was constructed in 1914. It is a single lane bridge that is eligible for listing on the National Register of Historic Places. This historic bridge will not be affected by the construction of the pond or associated trail. No artifacts were collected.