Abstracts Anthropology

An examination of intersite variability during the Millingstone Horizon of Southern California

by Joyce Margaret Corum

Southern California sites dating between 3000-8000 B.P. are attributed to the "Millingstone Horizon." This span of California prehistory is traditionally described as a period in which highly sedentary populations exploited primarily seeds and shellfish. A number of alternative views, however, are discussed in the literature. An investigation into the functional variability of Hillingstone Horizon sites is attempted in this thesis, utilizing three independent sets of data (locational, lithic, and faunal). Through the application of various statistical-typological techniques, five meaningful patterns of prehistoric land-use during the Millingstone Horizon are isolated. Those specific topographic and biophysical variables which significantly distinguish between these patterns or "catchments" are identified. Further, the temporal and spatial distributions of catchment types are examined. An analysis of available lithic and faunal data from Millingstone sites is attempted. Some correlation between these cultural materials and catchment type is demonstrated, thus providing insight into the behavioral significance of the defined types.