While the discussion and identification of complexes as “Archaic” is at present a common feature in a substantial number of archaeological reports, the actual excavation of Archaic sites has not kept abreast of the recognition of the importance of this stage in the culture sequences of North America. Much of its current importance as a widespread cultural manifestation is based upon the typological identification of surface materials through which period placement is inferred on the basis of resemblance to forms of known archaeological provenience or on the putative absence of traits of late origin such as ceramics.