Historic Archaeological Research (HAR) Indiana



Archival Research and Literature Review

As a function of project area background analysis, HAR researchers perform exhaustive literature review and archival research including, but not limited to, the following sources:
  • Regional government and State Historic Preservation Offices
  • State and local libraries and museums
  • Federal archives and records centers
  • Private manuscript collections



Survey Methods

HAR personnel employ a wide range of archaeological methods. Innovative and technologically advanced techniques, combined with conventional archaeological practices, guarantee that thorough fieldwork and data collection are accomplished in a timely manner.
  • Visual and subsurface site reconnaissance
  • Intensive subsurface electronic reconnaissance
  • Noninvasive geophysical investigation
  • GPS and electronic total station site survey
  • Computer aided site mapping
  • Statistical database analysis using state-of-the-art computer systems



GPS and Total Station Site Mapping

GPS survey and mapping

HAR owns one of the most advanced GPS systems available. The Trimble Pathfinder ProXRS with integrated DGPS receiver and antenna supports real time sub-meter or post processed centimeter accuracy position data. HAR has contracted with Omnistar for real time differential correction data throughout North America.

This state-of-the-art system coupled with site specific data collection programming permits us to create accurate site delineation or artifact distribution maps quickly and efficiently. Recorded data may be downloaded in the field and displayed on an appropriate USGS quadrangle for nearly instantaneous onsite analysis.

Nikon Total Station

HAR utilizes a Nikon Total Station in conjunction with GIS and CAD mapping applications to create high resolution site maps. The total survey station is used in all applications where precision measurements and or stake out are critical. Project site maps may be generated as a layer of an existing engineering drawing permitting a seamless interface with previously surveyed project areas. Custom CAD drawings illustrating site surface features may be created for use with archaeological or geophysical studies.

HAR will bid on virtually any size site mapping job. To contact us for more information or to submit a Request For Proposal, please visit our Contact page.

Trimble




GIS & Computer Aided Mapping

GIS software is a natural platform with which to assemble archaeological data for analysis and presentation. HAR utilizes ArcView GIS, the established standard for desktop GIS analysis and map preparation. Geographic data, such as site or artifact location coordinates, may be merged with database or spreadsheet data and queried thematically for analysis.

HAR uses digital USGS 7.5-minute quadrangles and aerial images to create the georeferenced base map layer. We maintain a growing archive of digital cartographic maps and references and will attempt to support any map theme requested by our clients.

historic prehistoric sites depicts a series of prehistoric and historic sites identified during archaeological reconnaissance of a military facility. GPS data collection significantly reduced the cost to map sites found in this expansive project area.

artifact distribution is an artifact distribution map depicting small arms projectiles recovered by an intensive metal detection reconnaissance. The location, type and caliber of recovered ammunition may be used to analyze positions of combatants and intensity of fire.

 georeferenced CAD themes illustrates how CAD drawings may be imported and used as a map layer. This is a vector drawing of the surface features found in a pioneer cemetery. Subsurface image data may be added as a theme to this view permitting layered analysis of disturbances with respect to above ground features.

GIS data manipulation often reveals spatially related patterns resulting from data collected archaeologically and is an extremely useful tool that no project should be without.




Metal Detection Reconnaissance

HAR has developed site reconnaissance methods that are applied in fieldwork where project objectives merit collection of metal artifacts. General guidelines and procedures for establishing metal detection survey parameters and equipment selection are outlined in excerpts of an article on the subject by Rich Green.

HAR owns a full compliment of detectors including both land and underwater VLF instruments, 100 kHz TR two-box type detector and hand-held magnetometers. In addition to a staff of technicians with experience in metal detection reconnaissance, HAR maintains a database of volunteer metal detector operators that have exhibited the essential skills and discipline to assist us on various projects. In short, we have the technology, experience and personnel to accomplish intensive metal artifact recovery under virtually any environmental conditions and on any size project.

A summary of previous projects may be found on our History page. HAR is available to sub-contract comprehensive metal detection survey or may be called upon for consulting services where applicable.




Geophysical Subsurface Imaging and Mapping

HAR owns a Mala Geoscience multi-antenna Ground Penetrating Radar (GPR) system. This instrument may be utilized to record minute variations, disturbances and features in sub-surface soil conditions permitting non-invasive investigation of both historic and prehistoric cultural deposits. Electromagnetic detection techniques may be effectively employed in relatively wide area survey resulting in a graphic overview that permits investigators to focus attention in areas exhibiting sub-surface anomalies.

Ground Penetrating Radar (GPR)

HAR has developed high resolution survey procedures that utilize multiple geophysical measurement techniques, in conjunction with precision site survey and mapping, to identify and pinpoint buried features.

Since early in 2000, HAR personnel have relied upon geophysical data collection technologies to locate and accurately map unmarked and or undefined 19th century pioneer cemeteries.

GPR survey in a pioneer cemetery

Click here for more information about cemetery survey, mapping and subsurface imaging with GPR



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