Interpreting the spatial distribution of lithic artifacts from the RLF Paleoindian site (DdJf-13), Thunder Bay Region, Northwestern Ontario

This thesis explores the intra-site organization of Late Paleoindian, Lakehead \nComplex populations at the RLF site (DdJf-13), located east of Thunder Bay, Ontario. \nSituated upon a relic Lake Minong beach ridge, the RLF site \n? \ns modest lithic composition \nand simple depositional context offered an ideal scenario for interpreting the organization \nof activities during a relatively brief occupational event. \nThe analysis and interpretation of the RLF site was conducted using a \ncombination of spatial analytical techniques and ethnoarchaeological/archaeological case \nstudies. This resulted in the identification and interpretation of eight distinct cluster subzones \nsituated within two larger zone areas. \nThe results of this thesis suggest that the RLF site represents a brief Late \nPaleoindian occupation during which early stage biface production was conducted. Lithic \nreduction took place in distinct flint knapping areas and was oriented towards the \nproduction of transportable biface blanks. Additionally, the southern portion of the site \nexhibited evidence of cutting/scraping activities, likely associated with either food \npreparation or hide working. Further spatial patterning, in correlation with the results \nfrom near surface geophysics (NSG), provided evidence for the possible presence of a \nbuilt structure and hearth focused lithic distribution in the northern portion of the site. \nThe RLF site analysis is a valuable case study for the application of intra-site \nspatial analysis on Boreal forest sites, as well as those utilizing CRM derived data sets. \nFurthermore, it provides a starting point from which future studies of Lakehead Complex \nsite organization and use can be compared.