ACCELERATOR MASS SPECTROMETRY DATING OF MEADOWCROFT ROCKSHELTER MAIZE

ABSTRACT The Meadowcroft Rockshelter in southwestern Pennsylvania is best known for its pre-Clovis occupation. Potentially important later times the recovery of maize macrobotanical remains from higher strata dating as early 4th century BC based on radiometric radiocarbon ( 14 C) dates wood charcoal. These have been considered to be potentially old earliest microbotanical evidence Michigan, New York and Québec recovered directly dated charred cooking residues adhering pottery. results accelerator mass spectrometry (AMS) 17 samples specimens all producing maize, indicate that originated historical use shelter, most likely after AD 1800. further emphasize need obtain direct contexts prior development common AMS dating.