Central States Archaeological Societies
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Geology, Archeology, and Earthquakes of the Central Mississippi River Valley

by Roy B. Van Arsdale and David H. Dye

Central States Archaeological Societies 2025 January Journal

 

This issue of the Central States Archaeological 2025 January Journal can be purchased on-line after March 2026

Clifton Blades


This new offering from the Arkansas Archaeological Survey Popular Series presents evidence of how seismic activity in the Mississippi Valley has affected cultures throughout time.

The first part of the book presents the geologic background to the land features and the Mississippi River, starting deep back in earth’s history to show the forces that created this region. The powerful geologic forces involved explain why the earthquake activity in this area is ongoing and can be exceptionally strong.

The next chapters highlight the various prehistoric time periods and correlate the movement of peoples to climatic changes and how the landscape affected where they lived. Numerous sites are pictured and discussed, while artifacts are shown to support the ideas presented. David Dye’s wonderful pictures are a highlight of the publication and make the text come to life. Evidence is presented that helps one understand the prehistoric cultural shifts utilizing artifacts, maps and artistic illustrations to further the conclusions.

Lastly, the major earthquakes of 1811-12 are discussed in vivid detail. These quakes were felt across the entire eastern United States. They altered the course of the Mississippi River, sank islands, created short lived waterfalls and lakes, and blew sand geysers as high as trees, forever altering the landscape. The forces involved are truly hard to comprehend.

This book is in full color with numerous illustrations. It is science based and is highly readable.
making it an asset to any archaeological library. It is also very affordable.
Highly recommended.

Geology, Archeology, and Earthquakes of the Central Mississippi River Valley by Roy B. Van Arsdale and David H. Dye. Softcover. 6” x 9”. 171 pages. $20 + s/h. Available from: archeology.uark.edu

Read other great columns in the Central States Archaeological Societies 2025 January Journal which can be purchased on-line after March 2024