North American Database of Archaeological Geophysics
North American Database of Archaeological Geophysics
Abstract/Summary:
Project Name: Geophysical Investigations at the HItchcock House and Possible Cabin Location;
Reference: DeVore, Steven L. (2003) Geophysical Investigations at the Hithcock House (13CA46) and Possible Cabin Location (13CA47). National Park Service, Midwest Archaeological Center, Lincoln Nebraska.
Between May 5 and 6, 2003, The National Park Service (NPS) conducted geophysical investigations at the Hitchcock House (13CA46) and an area believed to contain the Hithcock cabin (13CA47) near Lewis, Iowa. The project was conducted for the State Historical Society of Iowa and the Office of the State Archaeologist in conjunction with the NPS's Midwest Regional Office as part of an interest in assessing the potential of the site for inclusion in the NPS National Historic Landmark Underground Railroad thematic study. At the possible cabin location, pedestrian survey and metal detector sweeps located an area to the north and west of the farm buildings in the cultivated field. The results of the magnetic gradient survey indicated the presence of three areas containing light scatters of magnetic anomalies. These may be associated with the cabin. The magnetic gradient data of the yard surrounding the Hitchcock House indicated the presence of several concentrations of strong magnetic anomalies. Some of the anomalies were associated with extant features and structures while others were associated with the historic use of the house. A resistance survey was also conducted in a portion of the yard north of the house.