Locarno Beach
Locarno Beach, located in Vancouver, is an archaeological site significant for understanding the cultural developments of early Indigenous peoples in the area. First excavated in 1949 by archaeologist C. E. Borden, the site reveals artifacts from the Locarno Beach phase, which is characterized by intricate antler carvings depicting various figures, including animals and mythical beings. These carvings provide insight into the spiritual beliefs and practices of the time, including concepts of spirit power and transformation.
The presence of tools made from antler and bone suggests a sophisticated level of woodworking, likely involving the construction of dugout canoes and plank houses. Fishing and hunting tools, including spear-throwers, indicate a reliance on marine and terrestrial resources. Social indicators, such as ornamental lip plugs known as labrets, reflect the community's social structure. The subsequent Marpole phase shows only minor cultural shifts, indicating a continuity of practices and beliefs. Overall, Locarno Beach serves as a crucial link to understanding the early cultural complexities of the region's Indigenous inhabitants.
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Locarno Beach
Related civilizations: Saint Mungo phase, Marpole phase, Northwest Coast cultures.
Date: 1500-400 b.c.e.
Locale: Fraser River Delta and Gulf Islands, British Columbia, Canada, and Strait of Juan de Fuca, Washington state
Locarno Beach
The Locarno Beach (loh-KAHR-noh) phase site in Vancouver was first excavated by archaeologist C. E. Borden in 1949. Other sites with components of this phase have since been found. The preceding Saint Mungo phase has the beginnings of cultural complexes found in more detail in Locarno Beach. Small antler carvings showing birds, animals, humans, and mythical creatures provide a wealth of information about beliefs in spirit power and reincarnation. Miniature masks indicate transformation beliefs and the presence of masked dancers. The portrayal of ribs and backbones on these carvings suggests shamanic curing practices. Wedges made of antler, chisels of hardened bone, and adze blades of nephrite indicate woodworking and the probable manufacture of dugout canoes and plank houses. Fishing and sea mammal hunting implements, including parts for spear-throwers, are found. Social status was indicated by wearing ornamental lip plugs called labrets. Daggers made of slate suggest warfare. The succeeding Marpole phase is only slightly different.
Bibliography
Carlson, Roy L. “Sacred Sites on the Northwest Coast of North America.” In Bog Bodies, Sacred Sites, and Wetland Archaeology. Exeter, England: University of Exeter, 1999.
Croes, Dale R. The Hoko River Archaeological Site Complex. Pullman: Washington State University Press, 1995.