Beyond the laundry list: the analysis of faunal remains from a Dorset dwelling at Phillip's Garden (EeBi 1), Port au Choix, Newfoundland

• Main Author: Murray, Maribeth S.
• Format: Thesis
• Language: English
• Published: Memorial University of Newfoundland 1992
• Subjects: Port au Choix; Harp Seal; Newfoundland
• Online Access: https://research.library.mun.ca/11110/; https://research.library.mun.ca/11110/1/Murray_MaribethS.pdf

The analysis of a large sample of faunal remains from a Middle Dorset semi-subterranean dwelling at the Phillip's Garden site (EeBi1), Port au Choix, Newfoundland, was undertaken. Results indicate that harp seal hunting was the focus of the Dorset occupation in this location. The age profile of the sample suggests that the dwelling from which the bone material was obtained was utilized in the early winter for the hunting of harp seals on their southward migration past the Point Riche peninsula to the Gulf of St. Lawrence. A detailed study of Phocidae body part representation within the dwelling suggests that complete seal carcasses were brought to the site and butchered. -- The study of refuse distribution and feature placement within the dwelling revealed a c-shaped activity zone located around the short-axis of the central depression. Refuse was deposited within two large pit features and along the back of a raised rear platform. This pattern of house organization is unique to Phillip's Garden and suggests that there is greater variability in Dorset house form and use of internal house space than previously thought. This variability may be a function of seasonally specific dwelling use.