The Middle Stone Age Sequence at Klipfonteinrand 1 (KFR1), Western Cape, South Africa

A re-excavation of the Middle Stone Age (MSA) sequence at Klipfonteinrand 1 (KFR1), a rock shelter in South Africa’s Fynbos biome, reveals three distinct MSA components dating to ~69 ka, ~85 ka, and ~156 ka. Notably, the oldest component contains large blades absent from overlying strata, suggesting a unique technological phase during marine isotope stage 6 (MIS 6). Phytolith analysis indicates stable floral communities across these units, reflecting the biome’s resilience. The study highlights spatial variability in rock shelter occupation, as earlier MSA and early Holocene components were not found in a nearby trench, which instead yielded a sequence dominated by MIS 2 occupation. This research advances understanding of early modern human behavior in southern Africa while underscoring the discontinuous nature of archaeological deposits.

Mackay, A., Saktura, R. B. K., O’Driscoll, C. A., Boyd, K. C., Marwick, B., Moffat, I., & Jacobs, Z. (2023). The Middle Stone Age Sequence at Klipfonteinrand 1 (KFR1), Western Cape, South Africa. Journal of Paleolithic Archaeology, 6(1). https://doi.org/10.1007/s41982-023-00147-x