Cole Gravel Pit

A 3D reconstruction of a Late Archaic Native American archaeological site, located in Western New York. Project was completed during an Advanced Research independent study project at RIT by Sierra, in conjunction with the Rochester Museum and Science Center.

3D models were created based on archaeological records, drawings, photographs, historic records, and maps. Model completed to scale, based on archaeological pit maps. Original pit maps were analyzed, and then plotted in Photoshop, to translate exact layouts to the 3D models. Models created based on best inferences and conclusions based on the evidence provided and discovered.

When completed, the 3D reconstruction was rendered into a video, using a camera fly-through.

Site was configured in a half-circle formation. Evidence suggests post-holes may be used in living structures, which led us to the inclusion of longhouses.

Burial mound with a rock border and cairn. Storage pits shown in background.

Longhouses with bark coverings and postholes. A buckskin is covering the entrance of each door.

A roasting pit, meat drying rack over a small fire pit, storage pits covered with a bark sheet, and a tanning rack.

Additional components from the site, including burials, storage pits, roasting pits, and longhouses.