Abstract

Utilization of the rich lead-zinc deposits of Missouri (SEM) in early historic times, has been documented, but there are no records that the ore from mineral occurrences in the Upper Mississippi Valley (UMV) was exploited. Lead isotope analysis of Lead artifacts (mainly musket balls and metallic debris) found on mid eighteenth century sites in Illinois (Guebert, Kolmer, Fox encampment, Starved Rock outpost) show clearly that both SEM and UMV sources were used to supply raw materials for those products. The same technique indicates that European lead was also being used. Neutron Activation Analyses (NAA) on the available suite of samples record a broad range of trace elernents, none of which distinguish the sources.