GTI Environmental was selected as the contractor to perform the archaeological survey at the association’s trail property. GTI Environmental is composed of Sergio and Melinda Iruegas, who together have over 50 years of combined experience.
The initial field work discovered a piece of Spanish majolica pottery dating to the 1700s, a nail dating to the early 1800s, and a bolt and screw dating to the early 1900s. These findings demonstrate continued use of the road over the course of three centuries.
GTI has created a 185 page historical resources report. In general, and in accordance with the Secretary of the Interior’s Standards for Historical Documentation, GTI proposed that the scope of work for historical research report be considered as part of the research design or statement of objectives. This historic resources report is the most extensive study of the swales and their relation to the trail to date.
A 102 page archaeological survey report has also been developed by GTI, which when combined with the historic resources report, provides nearly 300 pages of information about the site.
Also, on March 26, 2015, Julie Vickers performed a volunteer archaeological project at the site under the supervision of Sergio Iruegas. Julie and Sergio performed shovel tests on the ridges of the swales, but found no archaeological remnants.
Julie’s volunteer project was also attended by Allan Turner of the Houston Chronicle. As you may recall, Allan did an article on our fundraising effort to obtain the property, and he did a follow-up to report on developments at the site. The Chronicle article appeared on March 30, 2015.
Sergio Iruegas and Julie Vickers perform a shovel test on a swale at the association’s property.
