Despite some erosion, the pubic symphyses show a breakdown of the symphyseal rim and face indicating an age of 38⁺ (McKern and Stewart:83). Endocranial suture closure is complete, suggesting an approximate age of at least 40. Thirdly, toothwear on the remaining molars seem to follow the pattern in Brothwell (1963:69) for the 35-45 age group.
The Stature was calculated using the formula 1.22 (Femur and Tibia) + 70.37 ± 3.24 (Trotter and Gleser 1958:120).
Both the tibiae ([Fig. 11]) and fibulae show evidence of inflammation of the Periosteum (Periostitis), similar to cases noted in Morse (1969:108). In addition, one lumbar vertebra has an anomalous growth on it, and the chin of the individual protrudes abnormally. The hole in the skull shown in the burial picture is the result of an accident in the excavation.
Figure 11. Tibiae from Burial 1, 23SA162W, showing evidence of periostitis.
Resting on and around the knees of Burial One were a number of whole bones and bone fragments of at least three other individuals.
| Sex | Age | Stature |
|---|---|---|
| Male | 30⁺ | —— |
| —— | 30⁺ | —— |
| —— | —— | —— |
These bones were laid in a haphazard manner. Most of the larger post cranial bones are represented by fragments from two separate individuals, but there are parts of three left femora present and possibly four. The poor condition of the fourth femur fragment left the side in doubt. The skull fragments are from at least two different persons. Mixed in with these human bones are two tibia fragments from a deer.
A skull fragment from one individual shows heavy muscle marking on the occipital region, and a fairly large mastoid process, suggesting a male. There are insufficient pieces of skull from the other individual or individuals for any judgment on their sex. The pieces of innominate are also fragmentary, although it appears that one acetabulum is rather large, possibly indicating a large femur head. While the long bones from all the individuals seem large, all the femur and humerus heads are missing, preventing any measurements for sex. All the long bones are broken.
The age determination is based on the presence of completely closed endocranial sutures on the skull fragments of two persons, suggesting a mature age. Although suture closure is not a good criterion for age (McKern and Stewart 1957:37), a more accurate age estimate is not possible because of the absence of pubic symphyses and teeth.