| dc.description.abstract | An archaeological survey of a proposed park site consisting of seven acres was conducted by Brazos Valley Research Associates (BVRA) on December 15, 2009 and December 17, 2009 for the City of Flatonia under Antiquities Permit 5481. The City of Flatonia also proposes to construct a 4000-foot hiking trail, but the area where the trail is to be constructed was too disturbed to warrant any subsurface investigation. No evidence of a prehistoric site was observed in the site of the proposed park. The lack of sandy soils and proximity to a major stream are the probable reasons. According to local informants, the project area had been used as pasture for cattle in the past. A small shed was present, and it is reported to have been used for hay storage. Since it is not fifty years of age, it was not recorded as a historic site. A wooden frame house stands in the southeast corner of the project area. It was constructed in the early 20th century by the Southern
Pacific Railroad where it was used as a residence for railroad employees. It was moved to the project area from its original location in the 1950s, and it continued to house railroad employees. Its eligibility for listing in the National Register of Historic Places or for consideration as a State Archeological Landmark is unknown at this time. It was recorded with TARL as 41FY557. The city plans to maintain this structure as a storage facility. In the northeast corner of the project area, a small scatter of modern trash was identified just below the surface. BVRA recommends that construction be allowed to proceed as planned. Copies of the final report will be made available to the Texas Historical Commission (THC), Texas Archeological Research Laboratory (TARL), the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department (TPWD), the Texas State Library, and the City of Flatonia. | en |
