Graman revisited : an analysis of stone artefact and site function at Graman sites GB1 and GB4
Abstract
This thesis is an analysis of function based on four levels of
interpretation. Those of individual artefact use, relationships between
artefacts within a functional assemblage, assemblages as p a rt of a
functioning site, and changing artefact and site function over time.
Well over 2000 stone artefacts from two rockshelters in the
Ottley’s Creek Valley n ear Graman were examined for the presence of use
wear and residues. One hundred and twenty-nine experiments were
conducted in order to replicate likely stone tool functions at Graman.
Previous ethnohistorical and archaelogical research at Graman was
reviewed.
The resultant data produced from this research has led to
interpretations of tool and site use a t Graman which indicate substantial
change in function over time.
The sites appear to have been base camps in which stone tools
were manufactured, used (predominantly for plant working), and
discarded in distinct activity areas. These activity areas and the ways in
which stone tools were used appear to have changed, a t both sites, over
time (although not simultaneously). However the general subsistence
strategies appear to have remained relatively unchanged.
Several methodological problems have also been addressed,
particularly those dealing with variations in fracture damage rates and
transverse snapping. Both of these areas of research require further
investigation b u t it appears that edge fracture rates are linked both to
intensity and duration of use and to the mechanical properties of the stone
raw materials used. Transverse snapping can result from a number of
factors, b u t certain forms of transverse snaps appear to be indicators of
barbing functions among backed blades. Generally, the results of the research lend support to previous
research, conducted by McBryde, which indicated that substantial
functional change has occured a t Graman over a relatively short period.
The research has allowed an examination of such change in great detail
and has shown that functional analysis is an ideal method by which the
minutiae of prehistory can be observed.