Academic Work

Current Research: Political-economic responses by the Gayogo̱hó:nǫˀ(Cayuga) people to the dual pressures of climate change and settler contact during the Little Ice Age period (1500-1850 AD). Methodology still developing, currently exploring the building of dendrochronologies of agricultural equipment and structures from the Late Woodland period to try to track changes in use.

Currently Reading: L H Morgan, Lubbock, Wilson, K Jordan, Olsen et al, Binford, Hodder, Meskell, Lucas, Hamilakis, Tilley, others.

Hilltop Retreat: The earliest structures of longhouse size within traditional Hodinǫ̱hsǫ́ :nih territory appear in the Susquehanna basin in Southeastern New York around the late twelfth century CE. Prior to this time, settlements were smaller, often consisting of only 1-2 structures, and typically located in lower-lying areas. From 1100–1400 CE, we see sites gradually moving higher, and into more defensible positions. Around this time, a notable new type of settlement appears; namely, one located on a spit, saddle, or other promontory surrounded by steep slopes. This is unusual, given the typical preference of the Hodinǫ̱hsǫ́ :nih for areas located near wetlands and swamps, and would have likely imposed some significant logistical considerations for food gathering, fishing, and resource procurement. Previous settlements on high features would usually have nearby access to these areas, and be situated on areas with gentler topography. No significant analysis of these sites has yet been given, nor an exhaustive list made.

Distribution of Iroquoian-speaking Peoples

An example of a hilltop site: Otstungo, dated to approximately 1450–1525 CE.