Expanding knowledge of late prehistoric lifeways in Northeastern Florida : new developments and future research in St. Johns II archaeology

This dissertation examines the St. Johns II culture, a late prehistoric fisher-hunter- gatherer group in northeastern Florida during the Mississippian Period (AD 900--1500). Focusing on the Mill Cove Complex, the study integrates lithic and zooarchaeological analyses to explore social behaviors, material culture, and environmental adaptations. The research builds on prior work by Dr. Keith Ashley, addressing gaps in understanding St. Johns II lifeways through a detailed lithic typology, debitage analysis, and comparative study of small triangular points. These analyses reveal insights into tool production, raw material sourcing, and regional interactions, challenging traditional culture-history interpretations. Additionally, excavations at the Caracasi site illuminate subsistence strategies and adaptive responses to the St. Johns River environment. The study situates St. Johns II within the broader Mississippian social landscape, highlighting their distinct practices amid regional trends like increased sedentism and trade. This foundational work establishes a framework for future research into St. Johns II social networks, mobility, and cultural dynamics, contributing to a nuanced understanding of prehistoric Florida.