Variability in Large-Area Magnetic Surveys at Hopewell Earthworks and the Challenges of Big Data

Summary

Many Ohio Hopewell earthworks present an interesting challenge to archaeological geophysics: they are very large and contain vast amounts of what seems to be empty space. Both have limited our understanding of the breadth of the archaeological record at these complex sites; that is, until very recently. Large-area surveys at three Hopewell earthwork complexes in Ross County, Ohio (Hopewell Mound Group, High Bank Works, and Hopeton Works, ca. 30 ha each), have uncovered a wealth of new features, from large pits and lightning strikes to wood henges and new earthen enclosures. In this presentation I explore the range of new finds and some of the challenges, and solutions, to working with large amounts of geophysical data. The results of today’s geophysical surveys will be the stuff of research designs for decades to come.

This Resource is Part of the Following Collections

• Society for American Archaeology 81st Annual Meeting, Orlando, FL (2016)   •
• Hopewell Ceremonial Landscapes Seen Through the Lens of Large-Scale Geophysical Surveys: Big Data, Big Opportunities, Big Challenges

Keywords

Spatial Coverage