Plateau Archaeological Investigations completed a cultural resource survey for the Endicott Water Systems Upgrade Project. The project included the installation of 2.5 linear miles of distribution and transmission pipeline and the replacement of an existing water reservoir. White settlers came to this area in the 1880s and the town layout has remained virtually unchanged since the early 20th century. Review of historic maps and photographs, however, indicate that the original schoolhouse had stood at the present intersection of Third Street and A Street, within the area of potential effects of the transmission line.
During the initial survey, Plateau observed no surface indications of Native American occupation within the areas of potential effect. The potential remained, however, to encounter Native American cultural deposits near Rebel Flat Creek, and it was further recommended that a professional archaeologist monitor the project streets paralleling the creek during excavation activities.
The historic document review suggesting that remains of the schoolhouse may present themselves during installation of the line prompted Plateau to recommended professional archaeological monitoring near the location of the former schoolhouse, also. During excavation work a small deposit of architectural and domestic items associated with the school was recorded as site 45WT383. No foundations were unearthed during construction of the waterline.
Location: Whitman County, Washington
