38 Glass beads (A common artifact type)

(Photograph courtesy of Research Laboratories of Archaeology. More about the photograph)

Glass beads were made in Europe and traded by Virginians to the Occaneechi, who used them in necklaces and bracelets and to decorate their clothing. The presence of glass beads is a tell-tale sign of contact with Europeans; however, they may not be found by excavators unless a very fine mesh is used to screen the soil.

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• Excavating Occaneechi Town The original version published by the UNC Research Laboratories of Archaeology includes historical background, interactive activities, and additional information about Occaneechi Town.

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• Search LEARN NC for more resources on American Indian towns, American Indians, North Carolina, Occaneechi, archaeology, artifacts, beads, and excavations.

Excavating Occaneechi Town

The original version published by the UNC Research Laboratories of Archaeology includes historical background, interactive activities, and additional information about Occaneechi Town.