Supplementary material: Archaeological Reconnaissance for Middle Stone Age Sites Along the Pondoland Coast, South Africa

Supplementary Online Material: Section 2, Research sites The 2011 P5 survey located and described 28 rock shelters. Numerous light scatters of shellfish were encountered, but we described

an additional 5 open-air sites that had stone tools, pottery, iron slag, or terrestrial fauna associated with the shellfish. Here, we

provide a detailed catalog of these sites. Each site is demarcated by a title page, followed by a description of the site and its location.

Each site section also includes photos of the site, maps , lithostratigraphic drawings, and photographs of surficial archaeological and

faunal finds.

A2SE-1…....S30 A3NW-6…..S46 B3SE-3…..S98 B3SE-9…....S144 C4NE-1…..S169 C4SW-2…..S214

A3NW-1…..S37 A3NW-7…..S48 B3SE-4…..S103 B3SE-10…..S144 C4NE-2…..S184 C4SW-3…..S215

A3NW-2…..S44 A3NW-8…..S56 B3SE-5…..S116 B3SE-11…..S144 C4SE-1…...S193 C4SW-4…..S219

A3NW-3…..S45 A3NW-9…..S77 B3SE-6…..S119 B4NE-1…...S146 C4SE-2…...S196

A3NW-4…..S45 B3SE-1…....S87 B3SE-7…..S121 B4NW-1….S155 C4SE-3…...S200

A3NW-5…..S45 B3SE-2…....S91 B3SE-8…..S131 B4SW-1…..S167 C4SW-1….S207

Table of Contents (click to navigate)

PaleoAnthropology 2013: S28–S223 doi:10.4207/PA.2013.ART82.dat1

© 2013 Paleoanthropology Society. All rights reserved. ISSN 1545-0031

SOM-S2: Research Sites S29


Site: A2SE-1

Location Easting (m) 768289

Northing (m) 65188445

Elevation (m) "'20

UTM Zone 35s

Dimensions Length (m)

Width (m)

73 9.6

Region: Lupatana

Overview

This rockshelter is located approximately 3 km south of the Lupatana gorge and

river mouth. The site is located directly on the coastline and the southern

margin has been eroded by the Mlambomkulu River waterfall. The rockshelter

is large and dry. Archaeological materials are found throughout. There are

abundant stone tools that have been preliminary classified into multiple lithic

facies. Marine shellfish and terrestrial fauna are also present. There is a

shallow, naturally-eroded exposure located at the drip line, which shows

stratified hearth de osits and archaeolo ical sediments.

Figure S2-1: Generalized planview map of the different sedimentary facies ob-served at site A2SE-1.

The upper figure shows a view of the site looking south. A natural erosional face from drip water is visible in the lower right corner of the image. The coastline is to the left of the image. The Mlambomkulu waterfall of waterfall bluff is visible in the background.

The lower figure show the generalized

sedimentology observed at the site.

The transect line from A to A’ is marked

in both the upper and lower images.


Figure S2-2: Generalized profile of the main lithological facies at site A2SE-1.


Figure S2-3: Faunal remains found on the surface at site A2SE-1.

(A) Unident.

(B) Unident. Size 2.

(C) Unident.

(D) Unident. Size 2.

(E) Astralagus. Size 2.

(F) Unident. Size 2.

(G) Unident. Size 2.

(H) Unident. Size 2.

(I) Tooth. Bovid or equid. Size 4.

(J) Bovid mandible. Size 1.

(K) Bovid mandible. Size 2.


Figure S2-4: Terrestrial and marine shells from A2SE-1.

(A) Scutellastra argenvillei

(B) Cymbula miniata

(C) Perna perna

(D) Scutellastra cochlear

(E) Land snail

(F) Tivela polita

(G) Turbo coronatus

(H) Cymbula oculus


Figure S2-5: Lithic Group 1 and Lithic Group 4a stone artifacts found on the surface of site A2SE-1.

Lithic Group 1

(A) Flake

(B) Cobble core fragment

(C) Flake on cobble

(D) Scraper

(E) Dihedral burin

(F) Core fragment with cobble cortex

Lithic Group 4a

(G) Flake




Site: A3NW-1



Elevation (m) "'140

UTM Zone 35s

Dimensions Length (m) 44

Width (m) 14

Region: Mkweni

Overview

This rockshelter is located on the upper Mkweni river near the confluence of

two tributaries of the river. The site is located near the top of a steep and sheer cliff face. Other sites in the vicinity include A3NW-7, -8, and -9, which are visible across the river. There were abundant archaeological materials visible. Mode 3 stone tools were present, as were abundant scrapers

belonging to facies 1. Shellfish remains were also common.

Figure S2-6: Generalized profile of the main lithostratigraphic units at site A3NW-1.


m

Figure S2-7: Shellfish observed on the surface of site A3NW-1:

(A) Burnupena lagenaria

(B) Burnupena cincta

(C) Scutellastra cochlear

(D) Perna perna

(E) Scutellastra argenvillei

(F) Fusinus sp.

(G) Scutellastra tabularis


Figure S2-8: Assorted Lithic Group 1 stone artifacts from site A3NW-1.

(A) Flakes

(B) Cobble core

(C) Scrapers


Figure S2-9: Lithic Group 3 scrapers from site A3NW-1.


Figure S2-10: Assorted surficial scrapers from site A3NW-1.


Figure S2-11: Hammerstones found on the surface at site A3NW-1.



Site: A3NW-2

Location Easting (m) Northing (m) -

----

Elevation (m) -

UTM Zone 35s

Dimensions Length (m) Width (m)

• wen1 Region: M

Overview

e rockshelter is a small cavity adjacent to A3NW-1. It is approximatey 10-20 meters away, and at the same height above the river, however there was no

visible and safe path to enter the site. Archaeological materials were visible on he surface of the rockshcelter when viewed through binoculars.


Site:

location Easting (m)

Northing (m)

Elevation (m)

UTM Zone


Width (m)

Region: Mkweni

Overview

These shallow rockshelters were located on the northeast side of the Mkweni River, and they formed a closely-located complex. All of these rockshelters

were located near to the current river waterline. The rock shelters floors appeared scoured and there were no visible archaeological materials. The sites

were not entered.


Site: A3NW-6

Location Easting (m) 771474 Northing (m) 6524849

Elevation (m) Unknown UTM Zone 3Ss

Dimensions Length (m) Width (m)

Region: Mkweni

Overview

This small rockshelter was located on the upper Mkweni River. The rockshelter

was shallow and it had only a very light scatter of marine shellfish remains/

which all appeared to be limpets. There were no visible stone tools.



Site: A3NW-7 - ----- --



Elevation (m) "'140

UTM Zone 35s


Width (m) 20

Region: Mkweni

Overview

This rockshelter was located above the Mkweni River, and it was naturally

subdivided into multiple chambers. Chamber 7 A is located on the NW side and it is subdivided from chamber 7B by a natural wall. There is another natural wall on theSE side of chamber 7B that separates it from site A3NW-8. Archaeological deposits were heaviest in chamber 7 A. Stone tools were common, but they all appeared to be from a similar non-microlithic facie .

Decorated ceramics and polished bone tools were also observed. Marine shellfish were also common.

Figure

S2-1

2: C

om

po

site se

qu

en

ce sh

ow

ing th

e m

ain lith

ostrati

graph

ic featu

res across th

e

A3

NW

-7 co

mp

lex and

A3

NW

-9.


Quartz arenite Low-angle trough cross-bedded, massive quartz arenite

~~~~~::::=::A~I~te'=r~n-'a.:Jg bands of trough cross-bedding, varying in angle dip. Separated Into packages by sediment structure. Mostly wellsorted with quartz, minor feldspar, and minor jasper inclusion

I Alternating bands of trough cross-bedding, varying in angle dip. Separated into packages by sediment structure. Mostly well· sorted with quartz, minor feldspar, and minor j asper inclusion

_j

!~i~~~~~~i~~~lHerrlngbone trough bedding, not perfectly symmetrical. Quartz rich with intermittent pebbles.

Dominant tabular beds, lesser low-angle trough cross-beds, well sorted quartz arenite composition. coarse sand grain size.

Massive. block beds of quartz arenite. some Interfingering conglomerate layers.

Figure S2-13: Panorama of site A3NW-7, Chamber A. A3NW-7A is located at the top of the A3NW-7 sequence. It is also the only

location within this site where there are archaeological remains. The path down to A3NW-7B is located to the left of center in this

image.


Figure S2-14a: Panorama of site A3NW-7, Chamber B. A3NW-7B is steeply sloped. The floor is covered by a thin veneer of

sand. No archaeological deposits were seen.

Figure S2-14b: MP standing in A3NW-7, chamber B.

Figure S2-14c: Chamber A, site A3NW-7, looking

from the entrance to chamber B.


Figure S2-15: Terrestrial fauna remains from the surface of A3NW-7A.

(A) Unident. Fragment.

Polished.

(B) Unident. Fragment.

Polished.

(C) Right mandible.

Lepus saxatilis. Size

1.

(D) Misc. Unident.

Fragments. All Size

1.


Figure S2-16: Shellfish found on the surface of A3NW-7A.

(A) Scutellastra longicosta

(B) Scutellastra cochlear

(C) Scutellastra granularis

(D) Scutellastra granularis

(E) Cymbula oculus

(F) Burnupena lagenaria

(G) Muricidae?

(H) Cymbula sanguinans

(I) Cymbula oculus

(J) Perna perna

(K) Charonis lampas pustula


Figure S2-17: Lithic Group 1 flakes from the surface of site A3NW-7.


Figure

S2-1

8: p

ott

ery fragme

nts fo

un

d o

n th

e su

rface o

f site A

3NW

-7A

.



Site: A3NW-8

Location Easting (m) 771682 Northing (m) 6524686 Elevation (m) "'145 UTM Zone 35s

Dimensions Length (m) 28 Width (m) 8.5

M • wen1 Region:

Overview

is shallow, dry rockshelter is located adjacent to A3NW-7A/B on the Mkweni River. The site was probably cut contemporaneously as A3NW-7A/B, but there

is a steep wall that seperates the two sites. There was a very high frequency of

stone tools on the surface and multiple facies were distinguished. Marine

shellfish were also common, as were terrestrial fauna remains. There were hree panels of rock art located on the back wall of the rock shelter.

Figure

S2-1

9: P

lan view

sketch o

f site A

3N

W-8

.


Rock Art, Panel A

--- --

'

Grassy slope, -30° -- -- --

'

--..-

----Sheer cliff face, -30 m high

kwe I • I

0 5 10 15 20 meters

Rocky ledge D Shell midden

D Pale grey sandy silt

Figure S2-20: Generalized lithostratigraphic profile of site A3NW-8.


Figure S2-21: Looking northwest across site A3NW-8. Rock art panel B is located below the walking stick. MP is crouching

below rock art panel C. MP is also in front of a small shell midden that was backed up against the rear wall of the shelter. In

the background, JP is crouching near the cliff face, which opens into the adjacent site A3NW-7, chamber B. The opposite face

of the Mkweni River gorge can be seen to the right of the photo.


Figure S2-22: Terrestrial

faunal remains found on the

surface of site A3NW-8.

(A) Right astralagus.

Taurotragus derbianus.

Size 4.

All other pieces

unidentifiable fragments.


Figure S2-23: Shellfish observed on the surface of site A3NW-8:

(A) Cymbula sanguinans; (B) Cymbula oculus; (C) Cymbula miniata; (D) Perna perna; (E) Scutellastra cochlear;

(F) Cymbula oculus; (G) Charonia lampas postulata; (H) Burnupena cincta; (I) Burnupena sp.; (J) Agrobuccinum pustulosum;

(K) Charonia lampas postulata


Figure S2-24: Lithic Group 2 artifacts made on cryptocrystalline silicate raw materials from site A3NW -8. (A)

thumbnail scrapers; (B) cores and core fragments.


Figure S2-25: Assorted scrapers from site A3NW-8. (A) Lithic Group 3 scrapers; (B) Lithic Group 1 scrapers.


Figure S2-26: Multi-directional cores from Lithic Group 4A found on the surface of site A3NW-8.


Figure S2-27: Core trimming and thinning flakes from Lithic Group 4A, site A3NW-8.


Figure S2-28: Assorted Lithic Group 4A flakes from site A3NW-8.


Figure S2-29: Lithic Group 4B artifacts from A3NW-8. (A) Bi-directional core; (B) Volumetric core; (C) Single platform core; (D)

Flake; (E) Assorted heavily weathered flakes


Figure S2-30: Abraded pieces of iron oxide (ochre), A3NW-8.


Panel A, Element A Panel B, Element B Panel B, Element C

Figure

S2-3

1: R

ock art p

ane

ls at A3

NW

-8 an

d th

eir corresp

on

din

g locati

on

on

the ro

ck shelter w

all.


Panel B, Element D Panel B, Element E Panel C, Element F

Figure

S2-3

2: R

ock art p

ane

ls at A3

NW

-8 an

d th

eir corresp

on

din

g locati

on

on

the ro

ck shelter w

all.


Figure S2-33: Panel A, element A from

site A3NW-8. The top image is

unprocessed. The bottom image is a

false-color enhancement of the LWE

color space using DStretch v.7.2. The

image is interpreted to show an Eland

painted as a stencil.


Figure 2-38

Figure S2-34: Panel B, element B from



false-color enhancement of the LBK

color space using DStretch v.7.2.


Figure 2-39

Figure S2-35: Panel B, element C from



false-color enhancement of the LRE



Figure 2-40

Figure S2-36: Panel B, element D from



false-color enhancement of the LRE



Figure 2-41

Figure S2-37: Panel B, element E from



false-color enhancement of the YYE


image is interpreted to show at least 4

caped individuals, possibly wearing

capes or other regalia.


Figure 2-41

Figure S2-38: Panel C, element F from



false-color enhancement of the LRD


image has multiple components, which

may not have been painted at the

same time. At left are two groups of

large vertical lines. To the right are at

least three animal figures.



Site: A3NW-9



Elevation (m) "'150m

UTM Zone 35s


Width (m) 4.6

Region: Mkweni

Overview

Relatively shallow rock shelter located to the southeast of site A3NW-8 and the

A3NW-7 complex. The base of the rock shelter was not exposed, suggesting that there may be deep deposits. The site had lower densities of surficial

artifacts relative to A3NW-8.

Figure S2-39: Panoramic

photograph and pan

view sketch of site

A3NW-9. Thicket

vegetation covers the

front of the site

approaching the

Mkweni River cliff face.


Figure

S2-4

0: G

en

eralize

d p

rofi

le o

f the

fron

t

of ro

ck shelter A

3NW

-9.

Figure 2

-41

: Ph

oto

graph

sho

win

g the d

ense

thicket in

fron

t of ro

ck shelter A

3N

W-9

.


Est. 2.8 m thick

Outcropping

Estimated 10° di of the bedrock

I Approximately 15 meters I

Figure S2-42: Faunal remains

found on the surface of site

A3NW-9.

(A) Left acetabulum. Equid.

Size 4

(B) Unident. Size 2.

(C) Right femur,

Lepus saxatilis. Size 1.

(D) Unident.


Figure S2-43: Marine

fauna found on the

surface of site

A3NW-9.

(A) Cymbula sanguinans

(B) Scutellastra tabularis

(C) Perna perna

(D) Cymbula oculus

(E) Suctellastra cochlear

(F) Cymbula oculus

(G) Burnupena pubescens

(H) Chiton

(I) Cypraea annulus*

*This shell is a potential

artifact.


Figure S2-44: Lithic Group 3 scrapers from A3NW-9. (A) Possible adze.


Figure S2-45: Artifacts that may be part of Lithic Group 4B, A3NW-9. (A) Core rejuvenation flake with centripetal flake scars;

(B) Possible naturally-backed knife.


Figure

S2-4

6: A

ssorted

ston

e A

rtifacts fro

m site

A3

NW

-9. (A

-B) Flakes w

ith rad

ial do

rsal

scars; (C) lam

inar fl

ake


Figure S2-47: (A) iron slag; (B) abraded iron oxide (ochre);

(C) pottery. All found on the surface of site A3NW-9.

A

B

C




Site: B3SE-1



Elevation (m) "'65

UTM Zone 35s


Width (m)

Region: Mbaxeni Lower

Overview

Site B3SE-1 is an open-air scatter of shellfish that was found eroding out of the top of an embankment of the Mbaxeni Rive approximately 1.7 km from the river mouth. The shell remains were relatively unbleached and unbroken. One

piece of pottery and one stone flake were found nearby.

Figure S2-48: Close-up of the B4SE-1 shells in context. The species were

overwhelmingly limpets from rocky intertidal zones.


Figure S2-49: (A) pottery shard; (B)

heavily weathered stone flake, found

near to the B3SE-1 shell deposits.

Actual association to the shell deposit

is unknown.



-~~-

- .__,


Site: B3SE-2



Elevation (m) "'6

UTM Zone 35s


Width (m)

30 18

Region: Kilroe

Overview

B3SE-2 is an open-air concentration of shell, terrestrial fauna remains, and anthropogenic debris that are overlying a heavily weathered, reddish-brown paleosol. Brown mussel (Perna perna) remains were common, but marine

oyster remains (Saccostrea cuccullata) suggest a relatively late age for this site. No flaked stone tools were seen, but there were grindstones as well as coarsegrained, thick-walled pottery and puncatate-decorated pottery. One piece of heavily corroded wrought-iron was also found.

Figure S2-50: Exposure of the reddish-brown paleosol underlying

site B3SE-2. Note the wood storm debris that has become

embedded into the paleosol.


-, ,.-:;-__ . .. --:. .. ' at. ..... . -... ~---

•

./

. " "

-

---

, _ . .. . .. . .. .. .. .

'- .... ·. t?'~

....

.·

::'

I ->

.. .... .... .... - ·""-·

.. ..

"' ~ -.. ' _,

.... .......,,..H. _ _ --...

Figure S2-51: Terrestrial faunal remains

found on the surface of site B3SE-2.

(A) Metapodial. Adult bovid. Size 3.

(B) Unident.


Figure S2-52: Shellfish remains


B3SE-2.



(C) Cymbula oculus


(E) Charonia lampas pustulata

(F) Acatina zebra (land snail)

(G) Haliotis spadicea

(H) Turbo cidaris natalensis

(I) Saccostrea cuccullata

(J) Saccostrea cuccullata?

(K) Barnacles

(L) Nerita albicilla


Figure S2-53: Grindstone


B3SE-2.


Figure S2-54: Pottery

fragments found on the

surface of site B3SE-2.

(A) Thick-walled, coarse-

grain pottery

fragment.

(B) Punctate-design, thin

-walled pottery

fragment.

(C) Thick-walled, coarse-

grain pottery

fragment.

(D) Thick-walled, coarse-

grain pottery

fragment.

(E) Thick-walled, coarse-

grain pottery

fragment.


Figure S2-55: Heavily

corroded piece of

wrought iron. The

fragment is relatively

thin (< 5 mm). Lamina

suggest that the iron

was folded during the

blacksmithing process.



Site: B3SE-3



Elevation (m) "'8

UTM Zone 35s


Width (m)

21.7

15.5

.... --- ,;. - ·

Overview

Region: Kilroe

B3SE-3 is an open-air concentration of shell, fish remains, and anthropogenic

debris that are overlying a heavily weathered, reddish-brown paleosol. Brown

mussel (Perna perna) remains were common, but marine oyster remains

(Saccostrea cuccullata) suggest a relatively late age for this site. The site is

located nearby to B3SE-2 and is associated with the same dune context. No

pottery was found at B3SE-3, but there were abundant manu ports and

grindstone fragments.

Figure SS2-56: Marine shellfish


B3SE-3.

(A) Perna perna

(B) Scutellastra pica

(C) Cymbula sanguinans

(D) Scutellastra granularis

(E) Scuttelastra cochlear


Figure S2-57: Fish bones found on the surface of site B3SE-3.


Figure S2-58: Two heavily weathered grindstone fragments found on the surface of site B3SE-3.




Site: B3SE-4


Northing (m) 6529948 Elevation (m) -

UTM Zone 35s

Dimensions Length (m) 25.8 Width (m) 8.1

Region: M • axen1

Overview

B3SE-4 is a large, dry, north-facing shelter at the headwaters of the Mbaxeni River. B3SE-4 is the largest of the Mbaxeni complex sites and one of the highest located above the river. The floor was heavily trampled by modern herd

animals. Visible archaeological remains included ground and flaked-stone tools, and pottery. One grinding stone with possible ochre staining may be associated with the production of pigments used to paint the images found on the shelter wall. Marine and terrestrial fauna, plant tissue and seeds were also

found on the surface of the site.

Figure S2-59: Interior of rock shelter B3SE-4 looking west.


Figure S2-60: Lithostratigraphic cross-section of rock shelter B3SE-4.


Figure S2-61: Assorted

terrestrial fauna bone


surface of site B4SE-4.

(A) Fragmentary bovid tooth.

Size 2.

(B) Fragmentary bovid tooth.

Size 2.

(C) Fragmentary bovid tooth.

Size 2.

All other pieces

unidentifiable.


Figure S2-62: Marine shellfish

remains found on the surface

of site B3SE-4.

(A) Cypraea annulus

(B) Burnupena lagenaria

(C) Burnupena sp.

(D) Scutellastra barbara

(E) Cymbula sanguinans

(F) Perna perna


Figure S2-63: Lithic Group 1 stone artifacts from

site B3SE-4. (A) Assorted cores; (B) Flake;

(C) Assorted scrapers


Figure S2-64: Lithic Group 2 stone

artifacts from B3SE-4. (A) blade and

blade core fragments. (B) Assorted

scrapers.


Figure S2-65: Assorted scrapers associated with Lithic Group 3 found on the surface of site B3SE-4.


Figure S2-66: Single

platform core that is

tentatively

associated with Lithic

Group 4a at Site

B3SE-4.


Figure S2-67:

Hammer or grind

stones found on the

surface of site

B3SE4. The lower

stone is stained with

ochre.


Figure S2-68:

Fragment of coarse

tempered pottery

from site B3SE-4.


Figure S2-69: Parallel linear rock art on the rear wall of rock shelter B3SE-4. A second set of figures is seen in the lower right

corner. The left image is unprocessed. The right image is stretched using the LDS color space in DStretch, v.7.2 to emphasis

the red pigment.


Figure S2-70: The second, lower rock art panel at site B3SE-4. The left image is unprocessed. The right image is stretched

using the YBK color space in DStretch, v.7.2 to emphasize the yellow pigment.



Site: B3SE-5 Mbaxeni Region:

Location Overview Easting (m) 777252 B3SE-5 is a small rock shelter located east of B3SE-4 in the Mbaxeni complex of Northing (m) 6529965 the sites. Marine shell and flaked stone tools were found lying on the heavily

Elevation (m) - trampled surface, but the assemblages was relatively small. UTM Zone 35s

Dimensions Length (m) 20 Width (m) 6

Figure S2-71: Rock shelter B3SE-5 looking west.


Figure S2-72: Generalized lithostratigraphic profile of rock shelter B3SE-5.



Site: B3SE-6 I

Location Easting (m) 77742~>

Northing (m) 65298lr9 Elevation (m) -

UTM Zone 35s


Region I _M_ba_x_e_n _i ____.

Overview

B3SE-6 is located the furthest east within the Mbaxeni site complex. It is a

small, dry shelter with evidence for intensive surface disturbance from

contemporary cattle. Flaked stone tools were found on the surface of the rock

shelter in relatively moderate density. Marine shell remains appeared to be

most frequent at the rear of the site. Several pieces of undecorated pottery

were also observed.




Site: B3SE-7



Elevation (m) -

UTM Zone 35s


Region: M • axen1

Overview

B3SE-7 is located below B3SE-5 and B3SE-4 on a tributary of the Mbaxeni River. The site is well-protected by thick vegetation. Sheep tethers, cow dung, and recently felled trees show that the site is frequently visited. The site is

composed on the surface of a mixture of ceramic, shell and lithic materials in a relatively disturbed context. Two pieces of possible iron slag were also found.

Figure S2-74: Panoramic view of the main chamber of rock shelter B3SE-7.

Figure S2-75: Panoramic view of the lower chamber of rock shelter B3SE-7. HC is standing in front of trough-cross bedded

deposits. Note the fallen roof blocks in the lower right. The path at the left of the image leads to the main chamber within

the rock shelter.


Figure S2-76: The western extent of the main chamber in B3SE-7.

There was abundant evidence of recent logging as well as corralling of

livestock.


Figure S2-77: Herringbone-bedded deposits at B3SE-7, lower chamber.




Figure S2-79: Terrestrial faunal remains from site B3SE-7.

(A) Unident. Size 2. (B) Left maxilla. Adult suid. Size 2.




B3SE-7.

(A) Scutellatra longicosta


(C) Dinoplax validifossus

(D) Dendrofissurella scutellum

(E) Burnupena pubescens

(F) Scutellastra cochlear

(G) Scutellastra cochlear

(H) Perna perna


Figure S2-81: Core fragments

associated with Lithic Group

1 from B3SE-7.


Figure S2-82: Blades found on

the surface of site B3SE-7 that

are tentatively associated with

Lithic Group 4a.


Figure S2-83: Iron slag

found non the surface of

site B3SE-7.



Site: B3SE-8

Location Easting (m) 777098 Northing (m) 6529997 Elevation (m) -

UTM Zone 35s


Width (m)

23 8

Region: Mbaxeni

• • iew

B3SE-8 is part of a second group of sites within the Mbaxeni site complex that

is located on an adjacent ridge to the west of B3SE-4 to B3SE-7. The site is

relatively deep and dry, but there is evidence of extensive, modern sediment

disturbance due to herding cattle in the shelter and harvesting the top layer for

cattle dung accumulations. A natural erosional scarp at the dripline exposed

stratified vegetated bedding. Numerous types of flaked stone tools were found

on the surface as well as marine and terrestrial fauna remains.

Figure S2-84: Main sedimentological units observed at B3SE-8 within natural erosional sections.

Layer 1: Thin greyish brown layer, ~10 cm thick that appears to be mostly composed of animal dung.

Layer 2: ~15 cm thick light greyish brown sediment with abundant animal dung and increased frequencies of in situ shell and pottery.

Layer 3: Light yellowish-brown sediment grading upwards to light gray coloration (Layer 2). Infrequent yellow-orange discolorations.

Contains at least 60% shells and shell hash.

Layer 4: Same as Layer 3, but no visible yellow-orange discolorations. Layer has fine bedding.

Layer 5: Darker and sandier than overlying layers. ~80% shell. Vegetated beddings remains also present.

Layer 6: The layer is high in organic content with abundant broken shell and shell hash. May not be in situ.


Figure S2-85: Layer 1 at B3SE-8. The layer is composed primarily of animal dung that accumulates in the rock shelter from

sheltering animals. Local residents harvest the dung for fire fuel by prying underneath of the dung layer with a crowbar and

breaking up the slabs for transport.


Figure S2-86: Broken slabs of Layer 1 that are being bagged for removal from the site. The slabs of animal dung will be used

as a fire fuel.


Figure S2-87: Generalized lithostratigraphic section of rock shelter B3SE-8.


Figure S2-88: Terrestrial fauna re-

mains found on the surface of

site B3SE-8.

(A) Right femur. Adult Leporidae.

Tentaitve ID: Lepus saxatilis.

Size 1.

All others unidentifiable.


Figure S2-89: Marine faunal

remains from site B3SE-8.

(A) Perna perna

(B) Cymbula sanguinans

(C) Cumbula miniata

(D) Scutellastra pica

(E) Cymbula sanguinans;

(F) Cymbula oculus

(G) Burnupena pubescens

(H) Burnupena pubescens;

(I) Turbo cidaris natalensis

(J) Scuttelastra cochlear

(K) Cellana capensis

(L) Turbo coronatus

“operculum.”


Figure S2-90: Lithic Group 1 stone artifacts from B3SE-8. (Left) Cores and core fragments; (Right) Assorted scrapers.


Figure S2-91: Lithic Group 2 stone artifacts found on the surface of B3SE-8. (Left) Scraper made on cryptocrystalline silicate;

(Right) Exhausted cores made on cryptocrystalline silicate.


Figure S2-92: Core attributed to Lithic Group 4A found on the surface of B3SE-8.


Figure S2-93: Heavily-weathered and broken cobble found on the surface of B3SE-8.


Figure S2-94: Coarse-

tempered pottery


surface of B3SE-8.


Figure S2-95: Oxidized iron nodules found on the surface of B3SE-8.



B3SE-9 -10 -11 J J Region: Mbaxeni

Location Easting (m) Unknown

Northing (m) Unknown

Elevation (m) Unknown

UTM Zone 35s


Width (m)

~~:--- ~ ·--~; . ·p

:.~-;":~-:r-- ·_ ,.......c:._ . .::; .

Overview

Sites B3SE-9, -10, and -11 are all located on the second, westerly ridge within

the Mbaxeni sites complex. Archaeological remains were not found on the

surfaces of any of these sites. The sites either had shallow, rocky floors (B3SE-9

and B3SE-11) or the floor was composed of disentigrating white roof spa II. Some archaeological remains found in B3SE-11 appear to be spill from

overlying B3SE-8. The sites were not mapped.


. ·

\

-....

,

.. . . ""\'"' .--.... ' " .. .,.~-t..r~ .. ...... ~ ..... .... -...

-......: ..:~~~

""' "• .. ,•\ .. .....

,. ..

:

-----

, '

f'C ~


Site: B4NE-1



Elevation (m) "'23 UTM Zone 36s


Width (m) 5

Region: GweGwe

Overview

This is an east facing rock shelter close to the coastline with a small river within

SO m to the site. Lithic scatters, ceramics, marine and terrestrial faunal remains are present on the surface. Very few diagnostic lithics were present other than a single quartz bladelet. A single polished bone fragment was recorded.

Figure S2-96: View of rock

shelter B4NE-1, looking

southeast.


Figure S2-97: Terrestrial

fauna remains found on the

surface of B4NE-1.

(A) Tibia fragment. Bovid.

Size 2.

(B) Vertebrae (snake?).


Figure S2-98: Marine shellfish remains found in B4NE-1. (A) Cymbula sanguinans; (B) Haliotis spadicea; (C) Scutellastra

longicosta; (D) Oyster, sp. indet.; (E) Turbo coronatus.


Figure S2-99: Assorted Lithic

Group 1 flaked stone tools

found on the surface of B4NE-

1. (A) Cobble core; (B) Scraper;

(C) Flakes


Figure S2-100:

Hammerstone from

B4NE-1.


Figure S2-101: Grindstones found at B4NE-1. The grindstone on the right is fragmentary.


Figure S2-102:

Coarse-grained

pottery shards found

on the surface of

B4NE-1.




Site: B4NW-1


Northing (m) 6531602 Elevation (m) "'34

UTM Zone 35s


Region: Msikaba

Overview

This site is located on top of coastal dune deposits near the mouth of the

Msikaba River. Stone artifacts are eroding out of at least one of two rubified paleosols, which have been incised by more recent weathering processes.

Rhyzoliths also common. Historical glazed ceramics and iron slag was also observed. No shellfish remains were found. More information can be found in

the main text.

Figure S2-103: Composite East-West profile of site B4NW-1 showing the underlying beach rock and current stratigraphic model of the

dune.


West

Dotted lines are inferred contacts between sedimentary units.

Coastal outcrops of Msikaba sandstones

Horizontal distance -250 m

This was the zone of archaeology. It was a deflation surface on rubified paleosols. Gullies of Facies 1 are blanketed with sediment from Facies 2 on the surface.

Tabular beds of quartz arenite with planar bedding. Marine notching.

Facies 1

Facies 2

D Facies 3

Facies 4

Facies 5

Wetland

D Sandstone

East

Figure S2-104: View of the B4NW-1 dune on the seaward flank. The paleosol exposures would be located uphill, to the left

of the image.

Figure S2-105: Panorama of the B4NW-1 exposure. The middle of the image is approximately east.


Figure S2-106: Artifacts laying on the surface of B4NW-1.


Figure S2-107: A 1.5 meter x

1.5 meter square was overlaid

a typical concentration of

lithics to better understand

the distribution and density

of the artifacts.

The artifacts were found

together suggesting there may

be some vertical deflation.


Figure S2-108: Lithic Group 5a cores found on the surface of B4NW-1: (A) Radial core; (B) Cobble core with limited radial

flake; (C) Quartz conglomerate radial core; (D) Prepared core; (E) Prepared core; (F) Single platform cobble core.


Figure S2-109: Assorted Lithic Group 5a stone artifacts found on the surface of B4NW-1:

(A) Split cobble; (B) Thinning flake with centripetal flake scars; (C) Flake-blade with diffuse, plain platform; (D) Heavily

weathered partially cortical flake; (E) Uniface on cobble; (F) Proximal flake fragment with bilateral notching; (G) Convergent

flake with facetted platform; (H) Dihedral burin on a flake


Figure S2-110: Lithic

Group 5A blade

fragments found on

the surface of B4NW-

1:

(A) Proximal blade

fragment with a

plain platform

(B) Proximal blade

fragment with a

facetted platform

(C) Proximal blade

fragment with a

facetted platform


Figure S2-111: Lithic Group 5 (Mode 2) stone artifacts found on the surface of B4NW-1:

(A) Biface on split cobble; (B) Bifacial pick; (C) Bifacially-flaked cobble; (D) Uniface on cobble; (E) Biface on cobble; (F) Uniface

on cobble; (G) Heavily-weathered biface; (H) Bifacial pick


Figure S2-112: Iron slag found on the surface of B4NW-1.


Figure S2-113: Historic ceramics found on the surface of B4NW-1.




Site: B4SW-1

Location Easting (m) 781481 Northing (m) 6529211

Elevation (m) "'34

UTM Zone 35s


Width (m)

Region: South Sand Bluff

Overview

Site is a very small exposure of stone artifacts and marine shell debris in a shallow rock shelter withiin a shallow gully near the coastline. There was

relatively dense vegetation in front of the site.


. . .. , . .. .. . ( . ~

:;. •. .Jill', . ,.6.. • • • •• " ... ..... . _ .. ' #I ... •

~--- f4·· .. ~. ., . : . . ..• ~,. ' . . . . i • . . •


Site: C4NE-1



Elevation (m) "'187

UTM Zone 36s


Width (m)

27

9

Region:

Overview

The site is a relatively large rock shelter partly covered in front of the drip line

by dense thicket. Five main depositional facies were identified across the rock

shelter floor within natural erosional profiles. The depositional facies may

correspond to multiple facies of stone tools also found on the surface. Marine

and terrestrial fauna were also abundnat, and a burm at the rear of the site included abundant shellfish remains. Additioal information can be found in the

main text of the paper.

Figure S2-114: Panorama of the valley surrounding site C4NE-1. The photo was taken standing above the rockshelter.

Figure S2-115: View of rock shelter C4NE-1 looking to the south. The

shell burm is visible to the right, underneath of the overhang.

Figure S2-116: View of C4NE-1 taken within the thicket in front of the

site.


Figure S2-117: Nearly complete base of a pot visible at the rear of the shelter underneath of the low overhang. The pot

was sitting on the shell burm, which is believed to be the most recent depositional Lithic Group.


Figure S2-118: Generalized plan map of the main depositional facies observed on the surface of site C4NE-1.


Figure S2-119: Generalized profile of rock shelter C4NE-1 and interpolations about the maximum depth of deposits based

on the slope of the Msikaba sandstone bedrock. These preliminary calculations suggest that the deposits may be upwards of

2 meters deep.


Figure S2-120: Lithostratigraphic profile of rock shelter C4NE-1.


Figure S2-121: Terrestrial faunal

remains found on the surface of

site C4NE-1:

(A) Metatarsal. Adult bovid, Size

3.

(B) Right mandible fragment.

Suid, Size 2.

(C) Premolar. Bovid.

(D) Right humerus. Adult bovid,

Size 2.

(E) Left scapular. Adult bovid

(F) Phalanx. Bovid, Size 4.

(G) Ulna. Bovid, Size 4.

(H) Unident.

(I) Ulna. Adult Leporidae. Lepus

saxatilis

(J) Left femur. Adult Leporidae.

Lepus saxatilis


Figure S2-123: Marine shellfish remains found on the surface of C4NE-1:

(A) Cymbula sanguinans; (B) Scutellastra tabularis; (C) Charonia lampas pustulata; (D) Perna perna; (E) Turbo cidaris;

(F)Sacostrea cuccullata; (G) Cymbula oculus.


Figure S2-124: Lithic Group 1

flakes from C4NE-1 .


Figure S2-125: Assorted Lithic

Group 2 stone artifacts from

C4NE-1.

(A) Core rejuvenation flake

(B) Flake

(C) End/Side scraper

(D) End/Side scraper

(E) Spokeshave

(F) Adze

(G) Thumbnail scraper

(H) Thumbnail scraper

(I) Thumbnail scraper

(J) Bladelet

(K) Bladelet


Figure S2-126: Assorted Lithic Group 4B stone artifacts from C4NE-1. (A) Single platform core; (B) Multi-directional core; (C)

Core rejuvenation flake with centripetal flake scars; (D) Core rejuvenation flake with centripetal flake scars.


Figure S2-127: Assorted stone

artifacts from site C4NE-1.

The artifacts are associated

with Lithic Group 4B.

(A) Biface thinning flake

(B) Partially cortical flake

(C) Flake

(D) Flake, with distal retouch

to form a point.

(E) Flake

(F) Core rejuvenation flake

with centripetal flake

scars.


Figure S2-128: Hammerstone /

grindstone found on the surface of

site C4NE-1.


Figure S2-129: Pottery shard

found on the surface of C4NE

-1 with striations on both

surfaces.


Figure S2-130: Nodules of

iron oxide found on the

surface of site C4NE-1.



Site: C4NE-2



Elevation (m) "'196

UTM Zone 36s

Dimensions Length (m) 11.7

Width (m) 6.4

Region:

Overview

Site C4NE-2 is a dry rockshelter with a silty floor. Marine shell is present, but not abundant, as are stone artifacts in similar quantity. Natural erosional section along the dripline at the front of the cave have revealed stratified sediments and archaeological materials.

Figure S2-131: Site C4NE-2, looking towards the south.


Figure S2-132: Shellfish remains piled into a loose burm near the rear wall of the rock shelter. Some cemented sediments

can be seen in the lower left corner of the image.


Figure S2-133: Terrestrial fauna remains found on the surface of site C4NE-2.

(A) Left tibia, Equid, Size 4; (B) Cervical vertebrae, Bovid, Size 2; (C) Metapodial, adult bovid, Size 2; (D) Left innominate, adult

canid, Size 1; (E) Cervical vertebrae, adult bovid, Size 2; (F) Innominate, Size 1; (G) Left humerus, adult felid Size 1; (H)

Cranium, Lepus saxatilis, Size 1.


Figure S2-134: Marine

shellfish remains found on

the surface of site C4NE-2.

(A) Sacostrea cuccullata


(C) Thais capensis

(D) Burnupena sp.

(E) Cypraea sp.

(F) Dinoplax gigas

(G) Perna perna

(H) Scutellastra cochlear

(I) Scutellastra granularis



hornfels cobble cores from

C4NE-2.


Figure S2-136: Lithic Group 1 flakes found on the surface of C4NE-2. (A) Flake; (B) Flake with cobble cortex; (C) Kombewa

flake; (D) Flake


Figure S2-137: Lithic Group 3 adzes found on the surface of site C4NE-2.




Site: C4SE-1



Elevation (m) -

UTM Zone 36s


Width (m)

Region: Horseshoe Falls

Overview

C4SE-1 was a small overhang located in dense thicket. There was a light scatter

of shellfish on the rocky floor. There was also one visible rock art painting on

the wall.

Figure S2-138: Rock art at site C4SE-1.




Site: C4SE-2



Elevation (m) -

UTM Zone 36s


Width (m}

Region: Strand Ioper Falls

Overview

The site is a collection of shell midden debris strewn around a rocky outcrop, as

well as inside a short and shallow rock shelter, near the mouth of the Mkambati river just below the strandloper falls . Ceramics, non-diagnostic

lithics, and relatively fresh shell remains were present, but most of the materials had been eroded out of the rock shelter, exposing bedrock.

Figure S2-139: Site C4SE-2 overlooking Strandloper Falls. Note the rocky floor where nearly all of the sediments have been

eroded away.


Figure S2-140: Generalized lithostratigraphic profile for site C4SE-2.




Site: C4SE-3 Mtentu Region :

Location Overview

Easting (m) 768289 C4SE-3 is a small, shallow rock shelter adjacent to the Mtentu River. The site is Northing (m) 65188445 located at the river mouth and is "'20 m above the river waterline. Flaked stone Elevation (m) "'20 artifacts, pottery, and marine shellfish remains were observed on the surface. UTM Zone 35s

Dimensions Length (m) 73 Width (m) 9.6

Figure S2-141: Exhausted Lithic Group 2 core on cryptocrystalline silicate from C4SE-3.


Figure S2-142: Assorted lithics found on the surface of site C4SE-3. (A-D) Flakes; (E) Bipolar split cobble.



Group 3 scrapers found

on the surface of site

C4SE-3.

(A) Side Scraper

(B) End Scraper


Figure S2-144: Hammerstones


C4SE-3.


Figure S2-145: Heavily weathered biface fragment from site C4SE-3.




Site: C4SW-1



Elevation (m) -

UTM Zone 35s


Width (m) 19.5

Region: Upper Mkambati

Overview

C4SW-1 is a west-facing rock shelter on the upper Mkambati River. The rock

shelter is part of a complex of sites in the vicinity (C4SW-1 to C4SW-4). C4SW-1

has a soft, dry, silty surface. Marine shell and flaked stone tools were

observed, but pottery was absent.

Figure S2-146: The C4SW site complex.

Figure S2-147: Interior view of site C4SW-1.


Figure S2-148: Generalized lithostratigraphic profile for site C4SW-1.



remains found on the surface of site

C4SW-1.



(C) Scutellastra tabularis


(E) Cymbula oculus

(F) Dinoplax validfossus



Group 1 cobble cores

made on hornfels

found on the surface

of site C4SW-1.


Figure S2-151: Lithic Group 1 hornfels core maintenance flakes from site C4SW-1.


Figure S2-152: Assorted Lithic Group 1 Hornfels flaked cobble stone artifacts that were found on the surface of C4SW-1.

(A) Cobble core; (B) Core fragment; (C) Scraper; (D) Core fragment



Site: C4SW-2

Location Easting (m) 782895 Northing (m) 6536793 Elevation (m) -

UTM Zone 35s



Overview

C4SW-2 is a small rock shelter around 50 m north of C4SW-1. Shallow sediment appear to overly bedrock and there is only a light scatter of shellfish remains (mostly limpets). No stone artifacts or faunal remains were found.


Site: C4SW-3



Elevation (m) -

UTM Zone 35s


Region : Upper Mkambati

Overview

Site C4SW-3 is located near the bottom of the Mkambati River gorge. The surface deposits are soft and silty and contain one a few marine fauna remains (all limpets), a single lithic flake, and a few thick-walled non-decorated cermaic

sherds. The paucity of materials at the site may have to do with its difficulty of access.

Figure S2-153: Generalized lithostratigraphic profile of site C4SW-3.



remains found on the surface of site

C4SW-3.

(A) Scutellastra cochlear


(C) Scutellastra cochlear

(D) Scutellastra longicosta


Figure S2-155: Pottery


surface of site C4SW-3.

Note the presence of

finger-scrape marks.



Site: C4SW-4



Elevation (m) -

UTM Zone 35s


Width (m) 5


Overview

C4SW-4 is a small rock shelter east of C4SW-1 and C4SW-2. The site is located

near the top of the cliff face. It is north facing and has a sandy floor with some

exposed bedrock. There was a light scatter of flaked stone artifacts, marine

shellfish remains, and some potter visible. The shellfish remains were all

limpets.

Figure S2-156: Assorted

Lithic Group 1 flaked

stone artifacts found

on the surface of site

C4SW-4.

(A) Side Scraper

(B) Flake

(C) Side Scraper



stone artifacts from site

C4SW-4.

(A) Flake made from

cryptocrystalline silicate

(B) Scraper made on a cobble


Figure S2-158: Core maintenance / trimming flakes associated with Lithic Group 4A from site C4SW-4.


Figure S2-159: Pottery fragment from site C4SW-4.


Supplementary material: Archaeological Reconnaissance for Middle Stone Age Sites Along the Pondoland Coast, South Africa

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