Radiocarbon Chronology with Marine Reservoir Correction for the Ritidian Archaeological Site, Northern Guam

Abstract

Archaeological investigations at the Ritidian Site in Guam provide a series of radiocarbon dates spanning the potential range of human presence in the region. Paired marine and terrestrial samples offer a basis for R calculation, as well as evaluation of the utility of different types of marine samples for 14C dating of archaeological contexts. The results indicate an early period of temporary fishing camp activity in the context of higher sea level and little or no stable beach, followed by larger-scale residential activity in the context of lower sea level and an extensive stable beach landform.