The Depth of Older Artifacts: Understanding the Factors that Influence Their Burial

Older artifacts are typically found deeper within archaeological sites. This phenomenon is a complex interplay of natural processes, human activities, and environmental factors. By exploring the reasons behind this burial pattern, we can better understand the principles of stratigraphy and the significance of each layer of soil. In this article, we will delve into the key factors that influence the depth of older artifacts, along with real-world examples to illustrate these points.

Layering of Soil: The Primary Factor

The layering of soil, or stratification, is one of the most significant reasons why older artifacts are typically found deeper in archaeological sites. Over time, soil accumulates in layers, with newer layers forming on top of older ones. This natural process can bury older artifacts as new materials, soil debris, and organic matter are continuously deposited over time. Each layer represents a different period in history and adds to the depth in which artifacts may be found.

Human Activity and Land Use Practices

Human activities, such as construction, farming, and other land use practices, can disturb the soil and create layers. When people build structures, they often dig into the ground, leading to the deposition of soil and artifacts in a stratified manner. This process can result in older materials being buried deeper, as they are situated beneath newer layers created by human intervention.

Natural Events and Their Impact

Natural events, like floods, volcanic eruptions, and landslides, can contribute significantly to the deposition of soil and artifacts. These events can bury older layers of soil more deeply, further influencing the location where older artifacts might be found. For instance, a flood can wash away the topsoil and deposit a layer of silt or sediment that buries artifacts below the surface.

Erosion and Weathering: An Intermittent Process

Erosion and weathering can cause changes in the depth of artifacts. While erosion can remove the upper layers of soil, exposing older artifacts, it generally leads to a deeper burial of older objects in stable environments. However, in areas with frequent erosion, artifacts may be more accessible on the surface.

Cultural Practices and Artifacts' Burial

Different cultural practices significantly impact the depth at which artifacts are buried. Whether it's disposing of items, building structures, or engaging with the environment, each culture has unique practices that can influence the burial of artifacts. This variability means that the depth of artifacts can vary greatly across different archaeological sites, even within the same region.

Real-World Examples

It's important to note that the depth of older artifacts is not always consistent and can vary widely depending on the site's geological conditions. For instance, in areas with stable geology and minimal erosion, older artifacts may remain at or near the surface. However, in environments with significant erosion, older artifacts may be deeply buried.

A personal example comes from my experience in the Mojave Desert, where vicious winds continuously blow away all sediments eroded from the local rocks. As a result, all artifacts, regardless of their age, are found on the surface. This presents a challenge for determining the relative age of items that cannot be dated using radiocarbon methods. Contrastingly, in areas with frequent flooding and sediment deposition, artifacts may be buried at greater depths, making them harder to locate.

For instance, I have found artifacts ranging from 8,000 to 10,000 years old directly on the ground surface. This variability underscores the importance of considering geologic conditions when conducting archaeological excavations.

Conclusion

The depth of older artifacts is primarily a result of the natural layering of soil over time, combined with human activities and environmental factors. By understanding these factors, we can better interpret archaeological findings and appreciate the complex interactions that shape the archaeological record. Whether an artifact is found on the surface or deeply buried depends on a myriad of local conditions, making each site a unique chapter in the history of human civilization.