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Archaeology Terms

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Postmold

Postmold

Postmolds are soil stains left by decomposing posts of structures. Seen from above, they are usually small, round stains. Cross sectioning can confirm whether they are postmolds or disturbances such as rodent runs (small animal burrows). Postmolds are usually straight and well defined, like the examples in this photo. Animal burrows change direction as they go down.

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MVAC Educational Programs are supported in part by the National Endowment for the Humanities. Any views, findings, conclusions or recommendations expressed in these programs do not necessarily represent those of the National Endowment for the Humanities. This project was supported in part by the National Science Foundation. Opinions expressed are those of the authors and not necessarily those of the Foundation.