Published online by Cambridge University Press: 25 January 2017
Sufficient work has been done in eastern Massachusetts to permit the formulation of working hypotheses regarding temporal changes in certain traits of the material culture of the aborigines. While the present data seem to show reliable trends, modifications in interpretation will undoubtedly be necessary upon additional excavation.
The chronological framework of the scheme presented here has been built on the basis of variations in shape of the projectile points found in various stratigraphic zones in the ground. Although the number of specimens from any one zone of a site is small, repetition of the phenomena is significant. Larger artifacts have been used when available to supplement and check the chronology based upon projectile points. Unfortunately, such major artifacts are extremely rare. Pottery has been correlated with projectile points by formulating ceramic periods. The author alone is responsible for classification of specimens and for any conclusions and suggestions presented.