Around 240,000 artifacts discovered at a Moose Jaw archaeological site in Saskatchewan are shedding light on the extensive human history in the Wakamow Valley. The latest findings were presented by archaeologists at the Moose Jaw library recently.
Bill Strongarm, a member of the Touchwood Agency Tribal Council within the Federation of Sovereign Indigenous Nations, expressed his satisfaction with the discovery of the site and artifacts. According to Strongarm, the site holds significant traditional value, serving as a camping location for Saulteaux and Assiniboine people en route to the Cypress Hills in southwest Saskatchewan. It is believed that these tribes utilized the area for water, food, and shelter, with some potentially staying during winter.
Strongarm emphasized that the artifact discoveries represent only a fraction of the narratives surrounding Indigenous communities and stressed the importance of establishing a heritage center to safeguard the site.
Alan Kojejbo, a senior archaeologist at Respect Heritage Consulting, highlighted the urgency of the archaeological exploration at the site due to an impending highway development nearby. The artifacts found at the site span both pre- and post-European contact periods, indicating human activity in the area for over 12,000 years.
The collection includes stone and bone tools such as projectile points, scrapers, awls, and knives, some of which were crafted from bison bones. Noteworthy features of the site are the plant and pottery remnants, with pottery findings initially suggesting origins from Missouri but later traced back to regions in southern Manitoba, Ontario, and Minnesota.
Microscopic analysis of plant residues on artifacts, including pottery, revealed evidence of crops like wild rice, beans, corn, and squash. Kojejbo expressed surprise at the possibility of agricultural practices at the site, suggesting it could be a unique discovery in Saskatchewan.
Questions remain regarding the origin of certain crops found, whether through trade or local cultivation. The artifacts have been forwarded to the Royal Saskatchewan Museum for further examination to deepen understanding of the site’s significance.
Overall, Strongarm emphasized the significance of the artifacts in affirming Indigenous presence and heritage on the continent, expressing pride in the discoveries made at the site.