Archaeological Comparison: Neighboring Islands
The archaeological record of St. Martin offers valuable insights when compared to neighboring islands such as Anguilla, Saba, and St. Eustatius. These islands, part of the northern Lesser Antilles, share similar geological histories and cultural influences, yet each has unique archaeological features that highlight the diversity of pre-Columbian life in the region.
The reconnaissance conducted on St. Martin by M.P. Sypkens Smit and A.H. Versteeg between 1979 and 1981 revealed significant findings at sites such as Baie Rouge, Cupecoy Bay, and Great Bay, including pottery, stone tools, and ceremonial artifacts like zemis. These artifacts show cultural connections with neighboring islands, where similar items have been discovered, suggesting a network of trade and cultural exchange.
For instance, the petroglyphs found on St. Martin at the Moho Ravine and Hope Estate bear stylistic similarities to those discovered on Saba and St. Eustatius, indicating shared symbolic traditions across these islands. Additionally, the stone tools and pottery from St. Martin’s Baie Rouge site resemble those found in Anguilla, supporting the theory of regional interaction.
However, while there are many similarities, the archaeological record also shows differences in settlement patterns, subsistence strategies, and material culture that reflect the unique environmental and social conditions on each island. For example, the larger and more fertile landscapes of Anguilla allowed for more extensive agricultural activities, while the rugged terrain of Saba led to different adaptations.
By comparing St. Martin’s archaeological findings with those from neighboring islands, researchers can better understand the broader cultural landscape of the Lesser Antilles during the pre-Columbian period.
References: Sypkens Smit, M.P., Versteeg, A.H. (1982). An Archaeological Reconnaissance of St. Martin. Versteeg, A.H. (1987). Comparative Archaeology in the Northern Lesser Antilles.