Middle Archaic

Middle Archaic (6000-3000 B.C.)
What is known about the Middle Archaic has grown significantly due to the work at a few well-known, stratified sites (e.g. Doershuk, Gaston, and Lowder’s Ferry) and several compliance projects. Although Middle Archaic populations are still considered to have been highly mobile, ranges and territories are thought to be smaller and more defined than earlier periods. Global climatic changes likely influenced technological changes such as the appearance of stemmed projectile points and the increased emphasis on locally available materials (Blanton and Sassaman 1989; Gardner 1974). Overall, subsistence patterns are believed to have been more generalized than the preceding period (Steponaitis 1986).
The common point types of this period are Stanly, Morrow Mountain, Halifax, and Guilford (Coe 1964). Stanly points typically have triangular-shaped blades with short, square stems and basal

Also during this period, major technological advances are seen, such as the widespread use of steatite for cooking vessels, and later, the invention of pottery (Bense 1994). Sites have been found in both upland and floodplain settings, some of which may have been larger, more permanent camps with intensive occupations. In North Carolina, these sites are found in practically all environmental settings.
The Savannah River projectile point is the characteristic point type for this period. The point was first defined by Claflin (1931) when it was discovered during excavations in the Savannah River Valley. Overall, artifact diversity points to a broad-spectrum adaptation. Steatite vessels, fiber-tempered pottery, net sinkers, atlatl weights, scrapers, drills, and grooved axes are commonly found from this period, indicative of a variety of