What the archaeology can tell us is that the Windover community treated its dead with consistent care, using specific materials and methods, and that this practice was maintained across many generations of burials in the same pond.

The Children’s Graves And What They Held

One of the most affecting aspects of the Windover demographic record is what was found with the children.

The pattern documented at Windover — children and infants buried with more grave goods than adults — is the inverse of what one might expect in a society organized primarily around economic productivity.

In many archaeological contexts, grave goods reflect status, and status in hunting-gathering societies is often tied to demonstrated skill and contribution.

Adults who were successful hunters or effective gatherers or respected leaders might be expected to receive more elaborately furnished burials than dependents who had not yet established their social roles.