TRADE AND EXCHANGE OF STEATITE, 3000 BC-750 BC, IN THE SUSQUEHANNA AND DELAWARE RIVER WATERSHEDS OF PENNSYLVANIA

Abstract

Trade and exchange of Steatite in the Susquehanna and Delaware river watersheds becomes more visible in the archaeological record approximately 3000 BC. This study will examine procurement and consumption of steatite bowls within the above watersheds of Pennsylvania between 3000 BC to 750 BC. Looking at the distribution of steatite sites in comparison to the distance from the quarry locations has enabled us to examine the trade and exchange model being utilized to acquire this material. The two models that are applicable to this region are direct procurement and down-the-line. Direct-procurement and down-the-line trade have distinct distribution drop-off patterns from the source. Using spatial analysis the distribution drop-off patterns from preferred steatite sources were examined. The data shows that steatite, a valued resource, was directly procured by a small number of groups within the watersheds examined.