Prehistory Research Project

 

The Prehistory Research Project (PRP) at TARL works closely with the nonprofit Gault School of Archaeological Research on archeological research and education regarding the earliest peoples in the Americas. PRP began with work at the famous Gault Archaeological Site north of Austin near Florence, Texas. Gault held many surprises including:

• Intact Paleoindian strata from 9,000 years ago to almost 20,000 years ago.
• Incised stones that are among the earliest provenienced art in the Americas.
• A possible Columbian mammoth kill site.
• A stone floor dating prior to 13,000 years ago, the oldest excavated house in North America.
• 6 million artifacts from an estimated 3% of the site.

The Prehistory Research Project is currently working on analysis and curation of Gault and several other sites. PRP is also testing multiple sites in Central Texas, searching for information on the earliest cultures in the state. Their team also works with students and volunteers on year-round internships, research projects, and independent study. These opportunities are available in both the laboratory and the field.