Chapter II: Part 2

Remarks: Fragments of long bones, mandible, and maxilla present. Position of mandible and maxilla among the leg bones suggests either a former disturbance of a primary inhumation or a secondary burial.

Artifacts in association: possible feature 15C and a cogged stone found about 18 inches away.

_Burial 12_

Location: section 17R7.

Depth: 26 in.

Type: indeterminable.

Condition: poor.

Position: indeterminable.

Sex: indeterminable.

Remarks: Bone disintegration and what seemed to have been disturbance obviated taking adequate information.

Artifacts in association: none.

DESCRIPTION OF ARTIFACTS

To avoid repetition of description, only those types or groups of specimens not covered in the earlier report will be fully discussed here. Such categories as have already been isolated and defined will be treated in summary fashion. For complete descriptive data, the 1947 account of the Topanga Culture should be consulted. The total tabulations of the major groups of artifacts derived from both season's excavations will be presented in this paper.

The artifacts from LAn-2 constitute a problem of their own and will be described in a later section of this paper covering the excavation of that site.

FLAKED TOOLS

With few exceptions, the additional flaked tools represent roughly the same sample as already revealed. Concave scrapers, thumbnail scrapers, a crescentic stone, and new projectile point types make up the adjunct to the typology. The frequencies for most of the groups of flaked tools are reasonably higher than was heretofore indicated. This is probably the result of the more extensive excavations carried out in the areas of greatest artifact concentration.

_Scraper Planes_

Numerically, scraper planes as an entire class constitute the largest single stylized group of artifacts from the Tank Site. Some forms display a marked perfection in flaking technique, and are comparable to illustrated specimens from the San Dieguito industry (M. J. Rogers, 1929; 1939, pl. 8, _i-j_) on the southern California coast and in the Lake Mohave Culture (Campbell _et al._, pls. XXVI, XXVII) in the eastern desert. The majority, however, exhibit only generalized characteristics with considerable latitude in external form suggesting that their manufacture required little precision on the part of the maker, and probably, also, they served essentially as an all-purpose tool. The nature of the wear on much-used specimens indicated hard usage, such as would result from repeated contact on an unyielding surface.

Figure 2 illustrates "ideal" scraper-plane types and the following description is a brief summary of the recognized forms. (For photographs, see Treganza and Malamud, 1950, pls. 17-19.)

_Type IA_

Round to oval in outline, flat base chipped about the entire perimeter. Top surface flaked to a near symmetrical dome shape.

_Type IB_

Like IA, except that the upper surface rises to a peak or ridge somewhat off-center.

_Type IC_

Like IA, but higher and with more latitude in form. Flakes are struck from the perimeter at a steep angle so that on most specimens height exceeds diameter.

_Type IIA_

Form is variable, but tends toward subrectangular. About three-quarters of the basal margin evidences flaking, the remaining portion consists of an unretouched straight edge caused by the removal of a large primary flake.

_Type IIB_

Like IIA, except that the worked edges display a marked degree of secondary flaking or resharpening, to the point where sections of the steepened sides are notably undercut.

_Type III_

Distinct from other forms in that they are shaped from angular rocks on which two separate working faces have been developed. In other respects the specimens in this category fall essentially into the IIA class.

Table 2

Frequency of Scraper Planes by Depth

=========================================================================
| Depth (in in.) |
|----------------------------------------------------------|
Type |0-6 6-12 12-18 18-24 24-30 30-36 36-42 42-48 48-54 54-60 |Total
-------------------------------------------------------------------------
IA | 22 21 16 9 6 4 1 1 ... ... | 80
IB | 11 6 5 8 3 2 1 ... ... ... | 36
IC | 34 52 28 17 14 7 2 1 ... ... | 155
IIA |356 472 385 187 88 43 23 12 2 2 |1,570
IIB | 12 7 10 4 1 ... ... 2 ... ... | 36
III | 29 43 21 17 7 9 3 1 1 ... | 131
-------------------------------------------------------------------------
Total by| |
level |464 601 465 242 119 65 30 17 3 2 |2,008
-------------------------------------------------------------------------

_Scrapers._

_Side scrapers (fig. 3, d-e)._--Ovoid to angular, with convex working edges. Frequently with scalloped working edges.

_Straight-edge scrapers or knives (fig. 3, f)._--Irregular forms with a single straight, monofacial retouched margin along one side.

_Ovoid or discoidal scrapers (fig. 3, a)._--Made from large flat flakes, often showing a percussion bulb on one surface, and worked to a near-symmetrical form. Chipping may extend over the whole of one or both faces.

_End scrapers (Treganza and Malamud, 1950, pl. 20, k-l)._--Subrectangular in outline with one of the narrow ends flaked back to a low angle.

_Snub-nosed scrapers (ibid., pl. 20, f-g)._--Like end scrapers with the exception that the flakes have been removed from the retouched end at a much steeper angle, producing a blunter but stronger working edge.

_Cobble scrapers (ibid., pl. 20, c)._--Made from a split cobble showing wear along the sharp curved margin. Only slight retouching.

_Flake scrapers or knives (fig. 3, g)._--Thin flakes monofacially flaked along portions of their peripheries.

_Concave scrapers (fig. 3, c)._--These are neither common nor are they clearly stylized. They total only nine, all acquired during the second season. Though none are alike, they characteristically display a shallow localized concavity along one edge. In some instances the margin of the concavity shows signs of notable abrasion. Small chips have been sprung from the base of the concavity probably through use. Sizes range from 6 to 10 cm. in diameter with the depressions varying from .5 to 2 cm. Seven specimens were of basalt and one each of chert and porphyry.

One specimen appears to have served a dual function as a tool. A portion of one edge is concave and the remainder convex, as on a typical side scraper. Both working margins display considerable wear.

Examples illustrated by Rogers (1939, pl. 8, _h_, _k_) for the desert Playa industry differ in that they are consistently subrectangular, elongated, and have a broader concave scraping edge along each of two sides.

_Thumbnail scrapers (fig. 3, b)._--Only a single specimen falls in this category. It is roughly circular in outline, thin, lenticular in cross section, and flaked on both surfaces. The example made of a dark-brown chert is 2 cm. in diameter and 4 mm. thick. The lone occurrence of this type of tool would seem to indicate a lack of emphasis on light delicate work. Implements of this nature are usually best associated with cultures of later origin.

_Choppers_

_Unifaced choppers or heavy duty scrapers._--These are produced from large cores of basalt or from a split cobble and exhibit flaking only on one face. (Treganza and Malamud, 1950, pl. 20, _d-e_).

_Bifaced choppers._--These are large cores bifacially flaked along an edge to effect a sharp, sinuous margin that may extend around the entire periphery or only a portion of it (_ibid._, pl. 20, _a-b_).

_Crescentic Stone or "Amulet"_

This class is represented by but a half of a single specimen obtained during the second season (pl. 21, _m_). Though this specimen varies somewhat from illustrated examples there seems to be little doubt as to its general classification. The function of these implements remains open to question, and varient forms appear to have considerable latitude in time and areal distribution in western United States. Similar forms may be noted for the Lake Mohave Culture and the San Dieguito-Playa industry (Campbell _et al._, 1937. pl. XXXVIII, _a-c_; M. J. Rogers, 1939, pl. 8, _a-c_).

_Drill or Reamer_

(Pl. 23, _d-e_)

Two very similar pieces make up the addition to this class. Both are elongated, tapering sections of rose quartzite on which the margins have been retouched and the tip of each is notably abraded. The large ends show no evidence of preparation for hafting, so presumably they were used as a hand reamer or drill. The lengths are 6 cm. and 10 cm.

_Hand Pick_

The two new specimens, roughly triangular in outline, resemble the single piece recovered in 1947. On both, the working end tapers to a heavy, well-formed point, whereas the opposite end is bulbous and fits comfortably into the palm of the hand. Lengths are 9.8 cm. and 13 cm., respectively, with basalt and quartzite as materials.

_Projectile Points_

Since projectile points as a general class have proved to be the best criteria for establishing the stratigraphic differences whereby Topanga Phase I and Phase II may be distinguished, and because projectile points, to some measure, provide useful comparative data, it seems advisable to illustrate all the complete and near-complete specimens collected during both seasons.

With additional information some modification has been made over last seasons presentation. Here are included two groups of projectile points, each of which is associated with a definite phase of the Topanga Culture. Phase I is characterized by large blades and large points, most of which are composed of a highly patinated basalt and have been manufactured through the percussion or rough pressure-flaking technique (pl. 21, _a-l_). Phase II is characterized by small projectile points of the "dart" class which in material range through slightly patinated basalt, glassy basalt, obsidian, chalcedony, and chert. All have been finished in a rough to medium pressure technique (pl. 22, _c-u_). Totally absent in either phase is the light, thin, finely pressure-flaked "arrow point" of the historic or protohistoric periods.

Table 3

Frequency of Flaked Artifacts by Depth

=========================================================================
| Depth (in in.) |
|---------------------------------------------------------|
Type |0-6 6-12 12-18 18-24 24-30 30-36 36-42 42-48 48-54 54-60|Total
---------|---------------------------------------------------------|-----
Side | |
scrapers|178 129 73 37 12 5 7 3 2 1 | 447
Straight-| |
edge | |
knives | 75 42 42 19 12 3 ... 2 1 ... | 196
Ovate | |
scrapers| 9 10 5 8 1 1 1 ... ... ... | 35
End | |
scrapers| 11 14 10 8 2 4 ... ... ... ... | 49
Snub-nose| |
scrapers| 8 15 6 1 2 ... ... ... ... ... | 32
Flake | |
scrapers| 25 20 14 8 2 1 3 ... ... ... | 73
Cobble | |
scrapers| 2 1 3 ... 1 1 ... ... ... ... | 8
Concave | |
scrapers| 3 3 2 1 ... ... ... ... ... ... | 9
Thumbnail| |
scrapers| 1 ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... | 1
Unifaced | |
choppers| 48 56 33 27 12 3 3 3 ... ... | 185
Bifaced | |
choppers|152 117 113 49 14 7 6 5 1 ... | 464
Core | |
hammer- | |
stones |339 422 429 154 93 17 18 9 5 1 |1,478
---------|---------------------------------------------------------|-----
Total by | |
level |851 829 730 312 151 42 38 22 9 2 |2,986
-------------------------------------------------------------------------

In addition to the physical and technological differences between the projectile points of Phase I and Phase II there remains important stratigraphic differences that are clearly shown in table 4. The large blades and points of Phase I are primarily confined to the lower levels of the site with the deepest occurrence at the 54-to-60-inch level and a maximum occurrence in the 12-to-18-inch level. Almost a complete reversal of this may be observed in the distribution of Phase II points. Here the maximum occurrence is in the 0-to-6-inch level and none occurred below the 18-to-24-inch level. That some degree of overlap is present can be expected, assuming our interpretation of the erosional history of the Tank Site is correct (Treganza and Malamud, 1950, p. 131). In any stratified site, unless the cultural levels are separated by a sterile layer of some thickness some degree of cultural mixing may be anticipated. Previously unknown to us was the fact that Mr. Trujillo had plowed the site in earlier days and this, plus rodent activities, could have brought about considerable mixing in the upper 12 inches of the deposit. Though less digging was done in the Phase II site LAn-2, it is significant to note that only the small pressure-flaked projectile points were present. In form and material they resemble in near exactness the material from the 0-to-12-inch level of the Tank Site (pl. 23, _f-m_).

Two specimens, a large blade and large point (pl. 22, _a_, _b_), have tentatively been assigned to Phase II though there may be some doubt as to their cultural provenience. The blade, composed of a dark-brown chert, shows considerable pressure-flaking skill as evidenced by the serrations along both margins. The large point composed of obsidian lacks refinement in flaking but shows little or no evidence of surface alteration (patination). Also, both these types are of not uncommon occurrence in the coastal shell middens that can be assigned to periods of less antiquity than the Tank Site.

Assigned to Phase I are three heavy points which, because of their nature, stand in contrast to the typical patinated basalt specimens; yet their association in the site deposit is such that they must be considered along with other projectile points as belonging to the Phase I period. Plate 21, _l_, illustrates a dark-brown chert blade with a concave base which was flaked either by controlled percussion or a rough-pressure technique. This specimen was found in direct association with an extended burial of the Phase I type (Treganza and Malamud, 1950, pl. 15, _f_; pl. 21, _i_), and hence has been assigned to this period. Though its presence appears out of character with the heavy basalt examples, this association is not necessarily unique, for almost an identical example may be noted for the Lake Mohave Culture (Campbell _et al._, 1937, pl. XLIV, _e_; pl. XLV, _d_). A second specimen composed of a white chert and having a broad angular stem base finds no other parallels in the Topanga area (pl. 21, _k_), yet it too occurs in the Lake Mohave area where such forms are classed as a Silver Lake type (_ibid._, pl. XLII, _d_). The third specimen is composed of a thin piece of laminated chert, leaf-shaped in form, and displays only slight marginal flaking in its original shaping. This example was recovered at a depth of 60 inches and marks the greatest depth of any projectile point recovered from the Tank Site.

Table 4

Projectile Points

=========================================================================
| Occurrence by depth (in in.) |
Points |---------------------------------------------------------|
|0-6 6-12 12-18 18-24 24-30 30-36 36-42 42-48 48-54 54-60|Total
---------|---------------------------------------------------------|-----
| _Phase II_ |
Side- | |
notched|... 3 ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... | 3
Contract-| |
ing | |
stem | 3 4 2 ... ... ... ... ... ... ... | 9
Lozenge | 9 3 2 ... ... ... ... ... ... ... | 14
Fragments| 26 14 5 1 ... ... ... ... ... ... | 46
---------|---------------------------------------------------------|-----
Total | 38 24 9 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 | 72
---------|---------------------------------------------------------------
Blades and large points
---------|---------------------------------------------------------------
| _Phase I_ |
Blades |... 3 6 1 1 1 ... 1 1 ... | 14
Large |
points | 2 4 2 ... ... 1 ... 1 1 1 | 12
---------|---------------------------------------------------------|-----
Total | 2 7 8 1 1 2 0 2 2 1 | 26
-------------------------------------------------------------------------

_Small "Dart" Points_

_Side-notched points (pl. 22, c, d, e)._--A single example differs in some degree with specimens recovered last season. It is smaller, having a length of 3 cm. and with a slightly concave base. Though this is a surface specimen composed of obsidian, the surface has been so highly patinated that it bears little resemblance to its parent material (pl. 22, _d_).

_Contracting-stem points (pl. 22, f, g, j, k)._--This type has some latitude in respect to the shape of the stem and some refinement probably could be made. Some specimens have well-defined shoulders and are with stems which contract to a sharp point (pl. 22, _g_, _k_), being reminiscent of points associated with the Hunting and Canalino cultures of the Santa Barbara coast. In other instances shoulders are less well-defined, or the stems terminate in more rounded bases. The lengths range from 2.7 cm. to 4.2 cm. The materials include basalt, chert, chalcedony, and obsidian.

_Lozenge points (pl. 22, h, i, l-u)._--Numerically this group constitutes the largest class of the small projectile points. Were a larger series present, some refinement of types might be attempted. Of the fourteen specimens, some tend toward diamond shapes, whereas others border small leaf or stem forms. Lengths range from 2.5 cm. to 4.1 cm. Materials used are obsidian, basalt, chert, and quartz.

_Large Blades and Large Points_

The large blades and points collected this season show some variation over those of last year, both in finishing technique, form, and material. Frequently, for lack of established terminology, it is difficult to distinguish between what might be termed a chipped knife, leaf-shaped blade, or a coarsely made projectile point. We attempt only a rough breakdown between blades and large points, either of which if hafted could serve the purpose of a knife. All specimens are illustrated and may be judged by the observer.

Described below are only those additional specimens collected this year. For full details the 1950 report should be consulted.

_Large blades (pl. 21, a-g)._--

1. This specimen comes from a depth of 48 to 54 inches, marking the
deepest level from which any blade was taken. Though it shows an old
break, enough remains to offer a computed length. The form is
leaf-shaped and probably pointed at both ends. Computed length, 9.2
cm.; width, 4.6 cm.; thickness, 1.2 cm. Material is basalt (pl. 21,
_b_).

2. Basal half of what was probably a leaf-shaped blade. Incomplete
length, 4.5 cm.; width, 5.4 cm.; and 1.4 cm. thick. Material is basalt
(pl. 21, _c_).

3. Larger half of a basalt blade, showing some attempt to reshape the
broken margin. Incomplete length, 7 cm.; width, 4.5 cm.; and 1.5 cm.
thick (pl. 21, _a_).

4. This chert specimen exhibits the best flaking technique of any
large blades from the Tank Site. Compared with the patinated basalt
examples, considerable contrast exists. Typologically this specimen is
similar to forms typical of the Hunting Culture of the Santa Barbara
coast. Because of its shallow position (6-12 inches), lack of
patination, and flaking technique, we have assigned it to Phase II of
Topanga. The form is a willow leaf with slightly serrated edges.
Length, 14.9 cm.; width, 3.4 cm.; and 1.5 cm. long. Material is a
dark-brown chert (pl. 22, _a_).

_Large points (pl. 21, h-l; pl. 22, b)._--

1. This specimen, like the blade above, also deviates to some degree
from other large points. It is composed of an unaltered obsidian and
comes from the 0-to-6-inch level of the deposit. Because of its
shallow depth and contrastive nature, it has been assigned to Phase
II. The form is leaf-shaped, being more pointed at one end. Length, 7
cm.; width, 3 cm.; and 1.3 cm. thick (pl. 22, _b_).

2. Specimen made from a thin piece of banded, laminated chert.
Shaping was done merely by marginal flaking, as the original surface
shows no working. Coming from a depth of 60 inches, this marks the
greatest depth of any large point. Length, 5.4 cm.; width, 2.8 cm.;
and 5 cm. thick (pl. 21, _j_).

3. Basal fragment of a large blade. This broad, angular base is a
unique occurrence for the Tank Site, though some parallels may be
noted in Lake Mohave specimens. This single piece possesses sharp,
angular shoulders that terminate in a broad, flat, angular base. The
material is a white chert (pl. 21, _k_).

GROUND OR PECKED STONE

_Manos and Metates_

As heretofore, manos far outnumber metates in the deposit. An explanation of this inequitable representation of milling stones has already been discussed in some detail (Treganza and Malamud, 1950; p. 140), _viz._, that the more rapid wear of the nether stone periodically called for manos of somewhat varying shapes to conform to the changing contour of the metate throughout its serviceable life. Proof to substantiate this thesis is lacking, but it appears to be a reasonable possibility. Also, the practice of pecking manos to increase the effectiveness of their grinding surfaces must have resulted in considerable breakage, as judged by the large number of fragments.

Of 2,556 manos and 329 metates, whole and fragmentary, 962 and 79 respectively, were classifiable. The descriptive categories derived from the 1947 data proved adequate in defining the limits of variability and patterning displayed by our recent acquisitions. Some pieces exhibit technological refinement of types earlier described.

_Metates_

Metates are of three types, called here deep basin, shallow basin, and flat slab. As was true last season, the material is predominantly sandstone for all three forms.

_Type I, deep basin (fig. 5, a, c, e)._--These are the most abundant. Fifteen complete specimens and seventeen fragments were recovered. In both form and size there exists a close parallel between this type and those associated with the Oak Grove Culture of the Santa Barbara area.

_Type II, shallow basin (fig. 5, b, d; pl. 18, c right)._--This type is represented by fifteen complete and eleven fragments.

_Type III, slab (fig. 5, f; pl. 18, c)._--Like type II, the slab metate is less common, being known only through eleven complete and ten fragmentary specimens.

The distribution of metates through the deposit was not as random as that of manos. Many of the complete specimens occur among features or with burials. Fragments were encountered throughout the excavation, but were most highly concentrated in features consisting of large aggregates of stone. No depth table has been presented for metates, as it is assumed that the mano distribution reflects a more complete picture for these related tools; however, the deep-basin form seems to occur at the greatest depth.

_Manos_

Manos and mano fragments were so common in the occupational debris that their association in features or with burials had little or no significance. With the exception of scraper planes they were the most frequent artifact group encountered. Their depth distribution (table 5) suggests several noteable points. The highest frequency occurs in the 6-to-12-inch level, being represented by some 349 examples. From 0-to-36-inches there are 960 specimens but from 36-to-54-inches there are only 2 examples. This would seem to indicate then that the early history of the Tank Site was characterized mainly by a flake-and-core industry with the mano-metate complex being exhibited only lightly at first and then gaining considerable importance toward the latter periods of Phase I. Excavations at LAn-2 would also indicate that the trait began to wane toward Phase II and was gradually replaced by a mortar-pestle complex, which continues to be characteristic on into historic times.

Manos have been typed largely on the basis of the number of faces that exhibit wear, the nature of the worked or worn surfaces, and the general form. Some eight types have been recognized.

Table 5

Mano Types

===================================================================
| Occurrence by depth (in in.) |
|-----------------------------------------------------|
Types | 0-6 6-12 12-18 18-24 24-30 30-36 36-42 42-48 48-54 | Total
------|-----------------------------------------------------|------
IA | 28 25 17 10 1 ... ... ... 1 | 82
IB | 12 26 12 8 2 ... ... ... ... | 60
IC | 10 13 10 6 3 ... ... ... ... | 42
IIA | 31 51 19 9 4 2 ... ... ... | 116
IIB | 54 106 76 31 11 2 ... ... ... | 280
IIC | 82 89 68 31 10 3 1 ... ... | 285
IID | 13 15 11 4 2 2 ... ... ... | 47
III | 9 24 16 2 ... ... ... ... ... | 51
------|-----------------------------------------------------|------
Total | 239 349 229 101 33 9 1 0 1 | 962
| |
| Fragments not typable | 1,556
| | -----
| | 2,518
-------------------------------------------------------------------

I. Unifaced

IA. Natural cobbles with wear on one surface. Cobbles range from
symmetrical to irregular in shape: circular to ovoid in outline.

IB. Extended form of type IA, showing excessive wear. Forms all tend
toward symmetry.

IC. Elongated "sugar-loaf" in cross section. Entire back surface
completely smoothed.

II. Bifaced

IIA. Natural cobbles with wear on two surfaces. Symmetrical forms
range from oblate spheroids to ovoid disks, others are symmetrical.
In cross section wear surfaces are parallel to lenticular. Grades
into type IIB.

IIB. Same as IIA, but forms are elongated (length always much
greater than the breadth).

IIC. Wedge-shaped, ovoid to elongate cobbles. Angle between wear
surfaces ranges from 5 degrees to 45 degrees.

IID. Same as type IIC, but one surface is keeled as a result of
superimposed wear pattern.

III. Trifaced

III. Long, narrow, triangular cross section.

_Mortars_

Newly acquired mortars are represented but by three fragmentary pieces. Only one is of sufficient size to suggest an outer diameter of approximately 12 inches, and all three appear to be of the cobble type similar to the complete specimen collected in 1947 (Treganza and Malamud 1950, pl. 24, _a_). Considering the area excavated and the very small number of both mortars and pestles that were recovered, it would be safe to assume this complex was of little significance in the history of the Tank Site. Their function was probably concerned primarily with something other than the food economy, such as grinding pigments or functioning in some specific capacity. Wooden mortars and pestles can not be totally excluded, but the great preponderance of manos and metates would probably preclude any serious assumption that mortars and pestles ever played any important roll at the Tank Site.

Included in feature 18 was a spherical cobble 8 inches in diameter, marked by a well-defined, shallow, circular depression. Its surface bears the marks of shaping by pecking and some rubbing; the depression is well-smoothed, as if worn down by constant use. We can not say whether the piece is completed, as such; or whether, possibly, it represents a small mortar in an arrested state of manufacture.

_Pestles_

Five complete pestles were recovered, providing a total of nine for the two seasons. The specimens this year differ from those already known in being more stylized, i.e., four are almost perfectly cylindrical and show wear at both ends. All are made of sandstone and have gently rounded pounding surfaces. Specimens 1, 2, and 4, as listed below, were found in a single cache.

1. Shaped over-all by pecking, forming a slightly tapered cylinder, somewhat bulbed at either extremity. Both ends evidence use. This example, by far the largest recovered from the Tank Site, compares in many respects to pestles associated with later cultures of the coast and interior. Length, 31.5 cm.; average diameter, 6.9 cm. (pl. 24, _a_).

2. Entirely shaped by pecking and grinding. Two opposite sides somewhat flattened by abrasion as if used as a mano on a slab metate, and resulting in a somewhat flattened cylinder form. Both ends used. Length, 13.5 cm.; average diameter, 6.8 cm. (pl. 24, _c_).

3. Similar to specimen 2, though more nearly circular in cross section and surface shows no grinding. Length 16.5 cm.; average diameter, 7 cm.

4. Completely worked by pecking and grinding. Cylindrical form distorted by slight tapering and dorsoventral flattening. Used at both ends. Length, 15.2 cm.; average diameter, 6.5 cm.

5. This specimen is composed of a highly weathered sandstone so that the surface treatment is no longer discernable. Shaped to a truncated conoid and apparently used only on the larger end. Length, 18.5 cm.; greatest diameter, 8.5 cm.

These five specimens were localized in the southeast sector of the deposit, and none occurred deeper than the 12-to-18-inch level. Numerous Phase II projectile points came from this same general area of the site and therefore there is some inclination to assign these specimens to a late position in the Phase I with the probability that they are Phase II.

_Abrading Stones_

Two broad classes of abrading stones have been differentiated on the basis of form and inferred function (Treganza and Malamud 1950, p. 147):

I. Those that could be held in the hand and rubbed against some
article being finished. These have smoothed, even-abrading surfaces
that are gently concave to convex. They are clearly distinguishable
from manos by their reduced average proportions, and the near
consistent lack of pecking as a sharpening measure. That this latter
characteristic does not hold without exception seems to be due simply
to the fact that some of the abrading stones appear to be reused
manos.

One of the examples in the above category, originally a broken bifaced
mano, has small, half-inch deep depressions at either end. These
evidently served as finger-holds, for they effect a good grip on the
tool.

II. Those that, though quite varied in size, bear one or more grooves
on their faces. The furrows vary in breadth and depth and appear to be
a function, essentially, of the amount and kind of wear to which the
artifact was subjected.

Many of these specimens, especially those with narrow, V-shaped
longitudinal grooves, would be classed as awl sharpeners had they
occurred in sites of later origin. However, bone awls or pointed,
worked bone in any form is absent in the Tank Site. It would suggest,
then, that this class of abrading stones were involved in conjunction
with wood working, the tangible evidence having been lost to us.

_Cog Stones_

Cog stones, because of their unique forms and restricted distribution, may be useful as diagnostic elements for future comparative studies. As yet we know little about their function or cultural associations in the rest of southern California. Their temporal position appears to be a middle one, as none occur in positive association with late or historic sites, and conversely, none have been reported for Lake Mohave, coastal San Dieguito, or Oak Grove. The Tank Site specimens represent the earliest known occurrence, and even here their exact position as to Phase I or Phase II is not fully known. Most of our specimens occur in the top levels (0-18 inches), though a single example was found as deep as 32 inches (pl. 23, _b_).

We have suggested cog stones in southern California may constitute the counterpart of the spindle charm stones of central California with the south boundary of the Chumash marking the near southern limit of the spindle forms. Material out of which cog stones have been made is of some interest. The Tank Site specimens range through volcanic tuff, siliceous sinter, escoriated basalt, to a fine-grained basalt. From other areas the same materials are present plus sandstone, granite, and granodiorite. Steatite, one of the most easily worked stones, appears to be absent. Obviously the hardness and type of stone were of little importance. The appearance of the finished product likewise varied. Some specimens are a product of perfection, others of the roughest sort. Perforated specimens might suggest hafting, but few are of this type.

The suggestion of a ceremonial usage of cog stones is not solely lacking in evidence. In 1936-1937, under the Works Progress Administration, Mr. J. W. Winterbourne excavated two sites in Orange County known as the Banning Site and the Norris Site. The following are excerpts from a letter dated April 13, 1939, to Edwin F. Walker from J. W. Winterbourne (we are indebted to Mr. H. Eberhart for providing this data from his manuscript on cog stones):

"I am enclosing some data on cog stones that one of the clerks gathered from the field notes.... We have noticed several peculiarities regarding this cogged discoidal. First, that the Banning Estate Site seems to have produced as many of these stones as all the other sites where they are found combined; second, that the stones in most cases are found in the clay completely below the camp debris; third, that rarely have they been found in association with other artifacts except the discoidal; fourth, that they seem never to have served a utilitarian purpose as they are not pitted or polished and rarely broken; fifth, if broken, in almost every case the Indians attempted to mend them with asphalt; sixth, that the material used in their manufacture is with few exceptions a vesicular basalt which is found in outcrops in the San Joaquin Hills and at various points in the Santa Ana Mountains; seventh, that the number of cogs or depressions may vary three to twenty-five or thirty-eight, that the stone may be perforated near the center of the planes or it may not be, but that usually there is a depression near the center of both obverse and reverse planes."

The following excerpts are from the same letter and contain more detailed information regarding archaeological occurrences: "A decomposed burial was uncovered four feet east of a cog stone and at the same depth.... Three fine specimens were found close together under four oblong slabs of fossilized limestone, a pectin shell and a blue piece of granite.... A cog stone was uncovered twenty-five inches below the surface, 19 inches northeast by north from a large metate, in plot #10-b. Upon further investigation, the metate proved to be resting on the stones of a fireplace from which a few broken human bones protruded. Twelve inches north of the fireplace ... a mano was found with the cog stone."

The above excerpts were from the Banning Site. The following are from the Norris Site: "Three cog stones, #39, #40, #41, were found at a depth of 39 inches. These cog stones rested in the clay on edge. Flat surfaces parallel to each other. These cog stones were found close to a fireplace about two feet square and also close to a burial ... two cog stones were uncovered. These cog stones were one on top of the other and rested on the clay which underlies the kitchen midden. A cog stone was found in test hole #14 at a depth of 3-1/2 feet, 8 inches below the bottom of the excavations in a pit. Abalone shell covered the top of the cog stone ... three cog stones one on top of the other.... This is the first fragment of a cog stone ever encountered in our excavation. We found a few with cogs or pieces broken from them but the Indians generally made an attempt to mend them. This would seem to indicate a ceremonial rather than a practical use."

These instances serve to indicate such objects were held in high esteem at least for the two sites mentioned. None of the Tank Site specimens was patched nor did any two occur in the same immediate area; however, parallels exist in the forms, materials, the near association of metates, and at least two burial forms. Also, we recognize no utilitarian role in which these curious objects could have functioned.

Last season's cog stones were all fragmentary. This year three complete specimens were found.

1. Beveled disk, biconically drilled. The specimen is indented at even
intervals, resembling somewhat a perforated metal tapered gear or a
fish vertebra. Height, 3.8 cm.; diameter at base, 8.8 cm. Material a
fine-grained basalt (pl. 23, _a_).

2. Slightly beveled disk. The periphery is grooved at even intervals
producing a cog effect. Both the flat surfaces are slightly pitted at
the center of the disk. Height, 4.7 cm.; average diameter, 8.5 cm.
Material a rough escoriated basalt (pl. 23, _c_).

3. Slightly beveled disk like the above specimen only more refined and
with more grooves. Slightly pitted on both surfaces. Grooves appear to
have first been made by a sawing technique and then later smoothed
down. Height, 3 cm.; average diameter, 7.3 cm. Material is volcanic
tuff (pl. 23, _b_).

_Stone Disks_

Discoids, like cogged stones, do not appear to have been utility items. That there may be some relationship between these two groups in a functional complex is attested by their direct association in the Banning Site as reported by Winterbourne. Eventually they may prove to be as important as cog stones in terms of cultural time-markers, though at present little is known concerning their distribution.

Stone disks have been divided into two gross categories: (I) those with flat to convex faces; (II) those on which one or both faces are concave. In either group the sides may be beveled or straight (for illustrations, cf. Treganza and Malamud 1950, pl. 24, _c_, _d_, _f_, _i_).

The three specimens recovered this season fall into the first group. All are characterized by flat faces and all are made of sandstone.

1. Sides beveled with the lower or larger face battered about the
entire periphery. Height, 4 cm.; diameter, 6.5 cm. to 9 cm.

2. Fragmentary specimen with straight sides and slight central
depression on one face. Height, 4.2 cm.; diameter, 7.7 cm.

3. Fragmentary specimen with vertical sides. Height, 3 cm.; diameter
undetermined.

A barrel-shaped object of sandstone was recovered which, if it is a finished product, should not be classed here as a stone disk. However, there is some possibility that it represents a discoid in the initial stages of manufacture, and as such it is without parallel in the collection. Height, 6 cm.; diameter 5.9 cm. at ends; 6.8 cm. at middle.

There is no reason to assume that any of our specimens are in any way related to the so-called "bowling" stones reported for southern California in late prehistoric or historic times.

_Rubbing Stones_

This class includes small flat cobbles, showing abrasive wear on one or both faces. They may be distinguished from manos by their reduced size though many appear to look like "little" manos. None shows any shaping other than through continued wear from use.

A minority of these pieces, thirty-four, are distinguished by the development of a small centralized pit on one or both smoothed faces. In some instances there is a single pit on one surface and two on the other. Many of these pitted examples have been battered on their peripheral edges, suggesting they were either reused rubbing stones or they served a dual function of both smoothing and pecking. We are hesitant to call them "pitted hammerstones" since many are made from a soft sandstone and would be ill adapted to this function. It is of some interest to note that this general type of stone implement occurs in central and northern California throughout most of the entire cultural history of the more advanced industries. It has been suggested that such an artifact may have been used as an "acorn anvil" or in some way related to the preparation of the acorn in the hulling process. Should this prove to be correct, then one might expect it to be an ancient element in native California.

For future comparative work it may prove advantageous to make further subdivisions by differentiating between pitted and non-pitted forms. We have made no attempt to do so at the present time.

_Core Hammerstones_

Some investigators tend to place core hammerstones in a class with flaked tools, but in the present paper they are classed as an artifact of pecked stone. It is the great quantity of their occurrence which appears significant, rather than how they are classed.

Hammerstones may be conceived as having two quite distinct functions: (1) those whose function is primarily to remove a large flake through the percussion method, such as the production of a core itself or a rough blade, and (2) those hammerstones having sharp or semisharp projections used to reduce to some desired shape rocks of a nonconcoidal nature, such as pecking down the surface humps on a mortar or pestle in order to develop symmetry; or the function may not necessarily be one of shaping but merely to periodically rough up a grinding surface on a metate or mano. There naturally remains the possibility that once a specimen of the latter type had lost all of its sharp projections it could then assume the role of the first type and continue as a useful tool (Treganza and Valdivia, 1955, p. 20).

One problem of classification arises when we combine the process of manufacture and the concept of use. If we assume a rough piece of source material was purposely flaked down to produce a core to be used solely as a hammerstone, the artifact by definition becomes a flaked tool. However, at this point it bears no resemblance to a hammerstone, but looks more like a chopper or just a plain core and frequently may be classed as such. Once this core is used as a percussion instrument and has its sharp margins battered back, it begins to take on the characteristics of a hammerstone or a used core tool. If battering continues, the final result is an angular nodule whose irregular, worn margins mark the former presence of sharp bifacial flake edges. A well-worn core hammerstone is also a worn-out specimen, at least in the light of its original function.

Of the 1,478 specimens from the Tank Site it is our opinion that their resultant form is derived through means of their own function--that of pecking. That such an implement was much in demand is evidenced by the pecked surfaces of numerous grinding tools. We doubt seriously if hammerstones of this type were manufactured as such, but rather we assume any suitable core, rejected scraper plane, or chopper could have served as a starting point, and an over-all examination of our specimens supports such a thesis.

Emergent is the correlation of core hammerstones and the presence of manos and metates. Noteably both these grinding elements are rare in the coastal San Dieguito and in the Lake Mohave area but do occur among the Shoshonean and Yuman groups who occupied the areas corresponding to these ancient lithic cultures.

_Cobble Hammerstones_

Cobble hammerstones tend to be oval or egg-shaped and exhibit abrasion on one or both ends. None exceeds fist size, and many are slightly smaller. A number evidence additional use as a rubbing stone.

A varient of this form is slightly thinner and contains small bifacial depressions that have been pecked into the more flattened sides and presumably served as finger grips.

_Slate Pendants_

To date, worked slate was represented only by three nonperforated, lozenge-shaped specimens, one of which displays a faint, crude rectilinear design. The second season's activity produced no comparable examples, though it added six pieces to the collection. These can be broken down into three descriptive categories:

1. Four examples, none over 2 mm. in thickness, too fragmentary to
warrent reconstruction. Judging by the striations on their surfaces
and edges, they were shaped by grinding. On each, one end tapers to a
blunt point.

2. A lozenge-shaped specimen containing three broken-out peripheral
biconical drilled holes. Average length, 6 cm.; average width, 4.5
cm.; 3 mm. thick.

3. A single trapezoidal specimen with no perforation or abrasive
marks, but shaped at its narrow end by chipping. Length, 12 cm.;
width, 6 cm.; 3 mm. thick.

_Miscellaneous Artifacts_

Here, as in the first report, are included objects that constitute part of the total cultural inventory, but as small or unassociated occurrences, they require individual descriptions.

_Objects of Stone_

1. A smooth, symmetric piece of fine-grained sandstone that, though
incomplete, is recognizably spindle-shaped. In all probability it is a
fragment of pseudomorphic _belemnite_ cast, but appears to be
analagous to the spindle-shaped charm stones of the Santa Barbara
Hunting Culture or to those of central California or to the single
specimen recovered at the Little Sycamore Site in Ventura County
(Wallace, 1954, fig. 38B, p. 114; pl. 24 _e_).

2. Six clusters of quartz crystals, apparently segments of geodes,
were recovered. Whether collected as a curiosity or whether they
functioned as would a single large crystal for purposes of anamatistic
power, as in central California, can only be conjectured. In 1947 a
very small, terminated crystal was found in direct burial association,
so there remains the possibility that at least single specimens had
some ceremonial significance.

3. Spheroidal cobbles of varying sizes were encountered, especially in
association with features. None appears to have been artificially
shaped either by pecking or grinding, and hence we assume they
represent highly selected specimens collected from the numerous
conglomerate exposures found in Topanga Canyon. Circumstances
surrounding their occurrence offer no clue as to their possible use.

4. Half of a biconically drilled chlorite-schist bead, 1.5 cm. long,
and about 1 cm. in diameter. Both ends appear to be roughly serrated,
but this feature may be accidental. That the bead was at one time worn
on a string appears evident from the high luster at the juncture of
the two conical drill holes.

5. A perforated tip of a fossil shark tooth, on which the enamel is
largely lacking.

BONE IMPLEMENTS

It can be said with certainty that bone tools in any form were not characteristic of the Tank Site in either Phase I or Phase II.

From both season's work were recovered a single fragment of a bone awl, a small section of polished bone containing a light drill pit, and the tip ends of six antlertine flakers. The antler specimens all occurred in the 0- to 12-inch level and probably should be assigned to Phase II since their distribution would coincide with the pressure-flaked projectile points.

This near-complete lack of bone artifacts is a pronounced contrast with later coastal and interior sites. In part it can be suggested that wooden objects were manufactured at the Tank Site as a substitute for bone.

OTHER REMAINS

_Unworked Bone and Shell_

The nonhuman bone recovered consisted primarily of highly fragmented cannon bones, none of which lent itself to positive identification. The total bulk of such refuse was surprisingly low. We can make no claim that mammal bone has disintegrated and disappeared in the course of time, for human bone, though by no means well preserved, was relatively abundant in small pieces (see features).

As has been pointed out, this scarcity of faunal remains lends support to the thesis that at least large game animals did not serve as significant staples. Smaller, lighter bones of rodents were even more rare, and even these could have been postoccupation, since burrowing mammals were present when we excavated. Only two pieces of bird bone were noted and both of these were under an inverted metate.

In the deeper part of the deposit (below 12 inches) identifiable shell remains were absent. Occasional small flecks of calcareous residue might suggest the former presence of highly altered shell remains, but as yet we lack a microscopic analysis to confirm this. In the extreme upper limits (0-6 inches) a few obvious shell fragments were collected, but even here such occurrences were rare.

_Fossil Remains_

Previously mentioned were a possible belemnite cast, which may have served as a charm stone, and a perforated shark's tooth, probably used as a pendant. Last season we observed numerous remains of some unidentified fossil vertebrate and several marine shells.

Whether these remains indicate merely the former presence of an aboriginal fossil collector, or whether they played some functional role, will never be known to us. A large fossil fish vertebra is known to have constituted part of a Yokuts rainmaker shaman's kit (records of the University of California Archaeological Survey), and fossil horse teeth occur with historic Wintu burials (Treganza, 1954), but the temporal separation between these two historic groups and the Topanga Culture is too great to offer any likely suggestions.

_Pigments_

Numerous mineral pigment sticks and granules indicate the considerable use of such items, but other than the occurrence of hematite in moderate to light form with some burials, little is known of possible additional uses. As for body paint or surface decoration on perishable material, the evidence of such use would not be preserved.

None of the pigment sticks was formed as a result of molding ground materials into a paddy or brick, as is sometimes noted for California, but rather, a good grade of mineral was originally selected, and, as pigment was desired, it was ground from this parent source. Gradually, either long angular or rounded forms resulted. Of these sticks of pigment 13 were hematite, showing a color range from brick red to brown; 33 were limonite, ranging from pale yellow to a rich orange yellow. Occasionally sticks of a pink mudstone occurred.

EXCAVATION OF SITE LAn-2

This site occupies the same ridge as does the Tank Site approximately 350 yards west-northwest of the latter at an estimated 150 feet lower elevation. The ridge narrows down to a slight saddle, providing a semi-knoll upon which the occupational debris has collected (Treganza and Malamud, 1950, pl. 14, _a_, _c_). For purposes of fire control the area had previously been bulldozed, obliterating the exact limits of the deposit. Mound soil appears to extend 110 feet east-west and 70 feet north-south, and is 36 inches at its deepest point, some 15 feet southwest of the center of the site. The midden thins out on the periphery more rapidly toward the west than to the east. The deposit is loose, dark, and sandy. No extensive ash lenses were observed, and charcoal, though it appeared in small pieces, was not common. Surrounding the depositional area, the markedly yellow sandy clay stands out in definite contrast. The submound base is the same as the surrounding soils only slightly darker from the downward leeching of organic material from the midden. Directly above the site and to the northeast, a light-yellow sandstone outcrop has been exposed to weathering for a considerable period of time.

Exploratory excavation was initiated in the form of a 12- by 3-foot test trench in 1947. Continuing in the summer of 1948, it was found that more thorough excavation would be warranted. A 5-foot coördinate system was then superimposed on the partial excavated area (see map 3).

At the conclusion of the 1947 season there was reason to feel that the Tank Site was stratified, though at that time without further data, or a means of checking with another site, the evidence was not fully convincing. However, in 1948 additional work on the Tank Site plus a limited amount of excavation on the LAn-2 provided the necessary information not only to show a definite cultural change in respect to some elements within the Tank Site, but also that the Topanga Culture as it has been defined underwent considerable change as it continued on into later times. These changes as exhibited in LAn-2 consist primarily in a shift in the method of disposal of the dead from extended burials to a flexed position, a change in burial orientation favoring north, elaboration in pestle types, absence of large crude blades, projectile points that are small and correspond with the types in upper level of the Tank Site, and a shift in material and variety of core and flake tools. It is upon these differences that Topanga Phase II rests.

DISPOSAL OF THE DEAD

The method of disposal of the dead contrasts sharply with that of the Tank Site. Of the four burials exposed, two were loose-flexed (pl. 17, _c-d_), a third, tight-flexed on the back (pl. 17, _a-b_), and the fourth, though incomplete, likewise suggested a flexed position. The use of a rock cairn is shared by a single burial from the Tank Site, though in the case of the former (burial 6), the cairn composed of manos and metates and other rocks surrounded the burial; here the rocks lay directly over the burial. Like the Tank Site, associated artifacts were rare. The only occurrence was a single metate associated with the cairn in burial 4.

The condition of the bones was poor. Though more complete than the remains from the Tank Site, the skeletal material was fragile and difficult to expose, possibly due to the loose sandy mound matrix.

Burial 5 from the Tank Site possessed a slight flexure of the knees and the dual burial 10 possibly suggests flexure. Both of these burials come from the shallow area of the Tank Site and may suggest a parallel.

In other coastal sites, the burial pattern found at LAn-2 finds comparable practices (Rogers, D. B., 1929; Rogers M. J., 1945; Walker, 1936; Peck, 1955; Wallace, 1954.)

Table 6

Burial Data on Site LAn-2

==============================================
| Burial number
Burial data |-------------------
| 1 2 3 4
--------------------------|-------------------
Depth from surface (in.) | 21 13 15 26
Primary inhumation | x x x x
Loose flex on side | x x x ...
Tight flex on side | ... ... ... ...
Tight flex on back | ... ... ... x
Head pointed | NE WSW N N
Artifacts associated | ... ... ... x
----------------------------------------------

DESCRIPTION OF ARTIFACTS

FLAKED TOOLS

The assemblage of flaked core tools recovered from LAn-2 represents in part a continuation of the lithic patterns as described for the Tank Site. Such modifications as have been noted, plus other cultural changes, constitute the basis for assuming this site follows the Tank Site in an uninterrupted temporal sequence. This assumption is further backed by stratigraphic evidence provided by projectile points (table 4).

Some core tools are also found in LAn-2 but do not occur either in the total quantity, quality, or number of types as found in the Tank Site. Many of the specimens exhibit a lesser degree of patination, though there are some that are heavily patinated. Considering the great quantity of tools in the Tank Site and its close proximity, it may be that the more weathered tools were borrowed from the Tank Site. The majority of the core tools were so poorly manufactured that at times definite tool types were difficult to recognize. Basalt still appears to predominate as a source material, but quartzite appears to have been of more common usage, especially in the making of certain scraper types.

Table 7

Flaked Tools and Materials from Site LAn-2