LEVEL 3

Level 3 extends from 3 to 4 feet below datum 3 (Figure 24). While Recoveries 70, 71, 77, 82 and 85 continue in this level from above, Recoveries 70 and 85 end before the bottom is reached. One new recovery, 87, appears in this level.

Recovery 87 consists of three distinct groups of tentage material clearly seen in Profile D (Figure 32). First, 87A is a group of poles and planks stacked against a box (Recovery 77), holding it in place. Next, Recovery 87C is a group of tent stakes and line tighteners found in a clump extending into Level 4. Finally, Recovery 87B, a layer of tent poles, is located within Level 4 and will be discussed as part of that level.


RECOVERY 087
Type: tentage.
Location: three discrete artifact clusters, two are located in this layer. Recovery 87A begins approximately 7.1 feet south/10.1 feet east and extends into the east wall. It is confined to Level 3, reaching from 3.3 to 4 feet below datum. See Level 4 for Recovery 87B. Recovery 87C is centered 9.7 feet south/10.8 feet east. It extends vertically through two levels from 3.5 to 4.7 feet below datum.
Diagnostic Artifacts: 87A contains modified tent poles and wood planks. 87C contains tent stakes, tent rope tighteners and rope stop beads.
Discussion: the majority of artifacts in this recovery are related to tent use and are grouped in three different clusters. Group 87A is a cluster of modified poles with notches and grooves laying on top of three planks. The material was found together suggesting it functioned together but its use is unknown. Group 87B is an assortment of ridge poles and upright poles discussed in Level 4. Group 87C is located south of the Group 87B. It is a distinct cluster of tent stakes, tent rope tighteners and rope stop beads resting on top of Recovery 89. These artifacts are an integral part of erecting and maintaining a standing tent. Their number and close proximity to one another suggests they were all used on the same tent and then later wadded up in a bundle with the tent rope or rolled up in the tent for transportation. In either case the ropes and tent cloth have deteriorated.