Utilization of Iron at Fort Mitchell 1RU102: A Functional Analysis

Abstract

From 1813 until 1840, the Fort Mitchell site, 1RU102, was a significant character in the history of the United States. It served as a fortification during both Creeks wars and as a focal point of trade between the United States government and Native Americans in the surrounding area between those wars. Despite the significance of this site, little is known about the interior of the forts and how the people who lived and worked in the forts made do with limited resources on the American Frontier. Iron in the 19th century was not as readily available as it is today. In fact, it could be said that it was actually scarce. This study looks at how the people who lived and worked in and around the Fort Mitchell site used iron.