Identification and prehistoric exploitation of chert from Fort Hood, Bell and Coryell counties, Texas

Abstract

The eastern and northern portions of the Fort Hood Military Reservation contain numerous chert deposits. These cherts are highly varied, encompassing a wide range of colors, textures, and flaking characteristics that are desirable for stone tool manufacture. A survey of the Fort Hood region was undertaken to: 1) establish the locations of chert deposits; 2) distinguish the chert types and varieties within each deposit; 3) collect samples f rom each deposit; 4) conduct a series of f laking experiments involving unheated and heat-altered cherts; and 5) correlate the experimental results with archaeological assemblages f rom the same region. Seven distinct types of chert and their variation ranges were established. Some of the types required heat alteration to enhance flakability, while others did not. Over 500 bifaces were experimentally produced. The results of these experimental replications compared favorably with the analyses of the archaeological lithic assemblages. The prehistoric inhabitants of the area knew which chert locations had the best quality material, as evident from the archaeological analysis. Prehistoric chert quarries were examined for evidence of material preference, initial reduction activity, and transport of material.