Definition: The Susquehanna Tradition is a Late (or Transitional) Archaic period (ca. 5,900 to 3,200 years ago) cultural group of the coastal regions of northeastern United States and including Nova Scotia and New Brunswick. The culture is characterized by the presence of soapstone vessels and the broad-bladed Susquehanna (or Atlantic) projectile point. Soapstone, also known as steatite, is a soft carvable metamorphic rock; soapstone vessels are considered an innovation leading to the invention of pottery in the American northeast.
This glossary entry is part of the Dictionary of Archaeology. Sources for the term include the references listed on the front page of the Dictionary, and the websites listed in the sidebar.
This glossary entry is part of the Dictionary of Archaeology. Sources for the term include the references listed on the front page of the Dictionary, and the websites listed in the sidebar.
Examples:
Wapanucket 6, Massachusetts; Boyleston Fish Weir, Massachusetts; Turner Farm, Maine.
