Abstract

Patterns in Iroquoian village relocation are presented. Typically, a village was located at the edge of its agricultural catchment and relocated a distance of two kilometres. Reasons for this relocation pattern are evaluated in light of archaeological, geographical, and historical data for a cluster of thirteenth and early fourteenth century village sites near Burlington, Ontario. A strategy for Iroquoian village relocation is offered, emphasizing the interrelationships between temperate forest regeneration and Iroquoian demands for cleared fields, building supplies, and firewood.