An Archaeological Survey for the Edward David Estates Project in Matagorda County Texas

Abstract

Brazos Valley Research Associates (BVRA) conducted an archaeological survey at two construction sites (areas A and B) along the coast in Matagorda County, Texas. When completed, Area A (42 acres) will contain a boat canal and lots to be sold as house sites. Thirteen acres in Area B (20 acres) will be converted into wetlands as a “trade off” for a wetlands area that will be destroyed through construction of the 42-acre tract. The northern two-thirds of the 42-acre tract had been scraped to clay and cleared of vegetation prior to this study, and some construction had already begun. The 20-acre tract, planned for conversion to a wetlands area was covered with grass.

A 100% Pedestrian Survey was conducted on both tracts, and the subsurface of each area was examined through shovel testing and backhoe trenching. Although oyster shell was observed on the surface in three areas of the 42-acre tract, no prehistoric artifacts were present. It is hypothesized that some of the shell was originally associated with a road culvert in the northeast corner of the tract. The remaining areas of shell are interpreted as natural occurrences.

According to local informants, a barn and corral were once present in the northeast corner of Tract A. These features were constructed over 50 years ago, but have been demolished and burned. Therefore, they could not be evaluated. The only information regarding this historic site was found in the scattered surface debris and through a personal communication with a former resident of the area.

Although a historic site may have been present in the 42-acre tract, no cultural resources remain that are significant. No evidence of a prehistoric or historic site was found in Tract B. It is, therefore, recommended that construction be allowed to proceed as planned. No artifacts were collected.