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[ j <br /> FIELD METHODS <br /> Definitions <br /> A"site" in this case site refers to locations at which there are sufficient artifacts and <br /> features to indicate patterned human activity. "Assessment" in this case refers to recording an <br /> archaeological property, describing it's significance to the known history/prehistory of the area, <br /> and giving a recommendation as to the properties eligibility for inclusion in the National Register <br /> of Historic Places. <br /> Survey and Recording Methods <br /> Since the location of the Gold Prince Mine was known,the survey technique involved <br /> driving to the site location, and then carefully examining an approximately 15 acre area around the <br /> mine. Transects of 3 meters were walked in an cast-west orientation to identify all associated <br /> features or artifact deposits. Placer Gulch was the focus of extensive mining operations from the <br /> late 19th to early 2"centuries. As such, there are numerous mining features <br /> roads, etc.) found throughout the area The site boundaries for the Gold Prince Mine(prospects, <br /> ere <br /> established by carefully examining the area surrounding the mine, and comparing the surface <br /> observations to historic photographs(1890s and 1907)of the mine during the height of it's <br /> operation. It was possible to include within the site boundaries all features associated with the <br /> early mining while excluding prospects and other portals on the surrounding slopes. All cultural <br /> features (including terraced areas, former building locations, privy pits, and artifact deposits)that <br /> could be associated with the early mining were recorded <br /> Recording procedures were done in accordance with and under the stipulations of the <br /> Colorado State Cultural Resources Survey Form This included the filling out of a Management <br /> Data Form, a Historic Structure/Building Form, photographs, and site maps. All features identified <br /> were photographed, described, and placed on a site map. Once the extent of the site had been <br /> determined, mapping proceeded using a combination of pace and compass and tape and compass <br /> technique to create a site plan. All features were measured using tapes in feet and engineers scale. <br /> RESULTS <br /> Field Conditions <br /> Field conditions were good during the course of this assessment. Ground cover was grass <br /> and wild flowers with generally good ground visibility(ca. 60%plus)for the field survey. In many <br /> areas granite was outcropping, coal cinders were deposited, and mine tailings were present which <br /> discouraged plant growth and gave good ground visibility. The remians of this mine and <br /> associated facilities are very deteriorated with extensive dismantchng of structures through salvage <br /> and vandalism. A great quantity of milled lumber is deposited across the site area which does <br /> obscure the ground visibility in and around many of the noted features. Much of the site was <br /> dismantled over the years, and piles of large timbers on the north edge of the site show the <br /> 11 <br />