Hell Gap is a stratified site with multiple Paleoindian components. Known as the type
site for three Paleoindian complexes (Goshen-11,000 rcybp, Hell Gap-10,000 rcybp,
and Frederick-8000 rcybp) and for its Paleoindian cultural sequence, the most complete
sequence known for the period, the site plays an extraordinary role in the studies
of the First Americans.
![]() |
From left to right: Goshen, Folsom, Midland, Agate Basin, Hell Gap, Alberta, Scottsbluff, Frederick, and Lusk |
Originally excavated in the 1960s by Harvard University and its Peabody Museum field expeditions, Hell Gap proved to be a chronostratigraphic panacea as well as a campsite, an uncommon type of site at the time and one yielding a richer cultural inventory of Paleoindian objects. Hell Gap has been under re-investigation since 1993. Our investigations aimed to analyze the results of the 1960s expeditions, as well as initiate new field studies. Excavations have currently reached the early Paleoindian components.
![]() |
![]() |
|
Cultural layers at the Hell Gap site (above left). Cynthia Irwin-Williams explaining Hell Gap on 1965 INQUA field trip, 1965 (above right).
Folsom fluting workshop, an abrader and ochre (below left), bone and stone beads (below right)
![]() |
![]() |
|