Phase I Archaeological Survey for the Proposed Des Moines Recreational River and Greenbelt, Botanical Center Riverfront Park, Riverfront Garden Project, Des Moines, Iowa.

摘要

This project represents the results of a Phase I archaeological survey for the proposed Riverfront Garden Project of the Des Moines Botanical Center Riverfront Park expansion. Archival and field investigation resulted in the identification of one previously unrecorded archaeological site which was designated as site 13PK534 by this investigation. This site represents remains associated with the former Iowa Pipe and Tile Company plant which operated at this location and its environs from 1881-c. 1957. Subsurface testing at the project location revealed a mixed, dense deposit of debris and rubble associated with this plant but no intact structural features. Archival and oral historical data indicated that the project vicinity had been previously impacted by demolition of the plant buildings and borrowing and bulldozing associated with the late 1950s construction of nearby Interstate 235. As a result of these many impacts, the integrity of the site deposit within the proposed construction area has been compromised making the site ineligible for nomination to the National Register of Historic Places. However, there is some potential for buried, intact remains of this site outside of the project area that should be evaluated if future construction projects involve those areas. Based on the results of this investigation, additional cultural resources investigations within the proposed project area are not warranted and project clearance is recommended.