Archaeological Background of Sauteurs Bay, Grenada (GREN-P-5): Settlement, Burial, and Disaster in the Shadow of Leapers’ Hill (Occasional Research

Archaeological Background of Sauteurs Bay, Grenada (GREN-P-5): Settlement, Burial, and Disaster in the Shadow of Leapers’ Hill (Occasional Research

Since November 2017, the northern coastline of Grenada has suffered extreme, continuous erosion inflicted by an ill-conceived, government breakwater project. Aside from the modern catastrophe to homes and businesses, the area affected also happens to be one of the most important archaeological sites on the island. First settled around AD 300 and occupied continuously until French colonization, Sauteurs Bay (site # GREN-P-5) represents a large Amerindian settlement that persisted well over 1000 years. Indeed, the historic village here was razed by French forces in 1650, during the eponymous massacre at le Morne des Sauteurs (Leapers’ Hill). Owing to particular circumstances, such as the alkalinity of the coastal environment and the relative lack of historic disturbance, a large burial population was preserved over time, with at least 45 individuals recovered since 1994, mostly dating between AD 900-1200 (the Late Ceramic Age). Many more burials are likely yet to be found, while others have been tragically lost to the sea forever. This manuscript offers a synthesis of all available data from this important archaeological site to date and offers a cautionary case-study for improving the management of Grenada’s rich heritage. Printed in full color with the price set at-cost (no royalties), to ensure more easily available.