Guy Gibbon

Old Copper in Minnesota: A Review

Old Copper refers to a complex of large utilitarian artifacts, such as spear heads, celts, and knives, that are made of nearly pure native copper. The complex, whose classic phase spans portions of the Middle and Late Archaic periods (ca 3000-1000 BC), is distinctive to the western Great Lakes and areas as far west as Alberta. This article provides (I) a brief history of Old Copper studies, (2) a synopsis of the types, frequencies, and distributions of Old Copper artifacts in Minnesota, (3) a summary of what we know about the sources of copper used to make Old Copper artifacts in the state, (4) a discussion of four key issues in Old Copper research viewed from a Minnesota perspective, and (5) a conclusion that stresses Old Copper research priorities in Minnesota and other regions west of the Old Copper heartland.

Sense and Sensibility in Midwestern Archaeology and the Midcontinental Journal of Archaeology, Part I

Abstract The progression of archaeology in the midcontinent over the past 40 years has moved on a series of different but overlapping fronts: regional, governmental, institutional, disciplinary, and personal. This collection of thoughts by both longtime and relatively young practitioners of our field suggests the many ways that archaeology has changed for the good—and maybe not so good—depending on our own experiences. Midcontinental Journal of Archaeology (MCJA) has changed along with these developments. Part I of this discussion centered on the need for, and foundation of, MCJA. Part II is more diverse, with the archaeologists who have participated in the field for the last 40 years reflecting on the shifts in archaeology within their regions—both in terms of practice and institutional practices. The forces of national economics and academic politics and the changing sensibilities toward our public constituencies described here are themes that continue to influence us today.