Around 240,000 artifacts discovered at an archaeological site in Moose Jaw, 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 Federation of Sovereign Indigenous Nations and the Touchwood Agency Tribal Council, expressed his satisfaction with the discovery of the site and artifacts. He emphasized the sacred significance of the location, which served as a camping area for the Saulteaux and Assiniboine people en route to the Cypress Hills in southwestern Saskatchewan. Strongarm mentioned that these tribes likely used the site for water, food resupply, and winter stays.
The artifacts unearthed represent a layer of narratives that warrant further exploration into Indigenous history. Strongarm envisions the establishment of a heritage center to preserve the area and share more stories about how Indigenous communities adapted to their surroundings.
Alan Korejbo, a senior archaeologist at Respect Heritage Consulting, revealed that the archaeological work was initiated due to impending construction near the site. The artifacts discovered, ranging from pre- to post-European contact periods, indicate human activity in the region for over 12,000 years. The diverse collection includes stone and bone tools like projectile points, scrapers, awls, and knives, with some crafted from bison bones.
Korejbo highlighted the presence of plant and pottery evidence at the site as particularly remarkable. The pottery, initially thought to be from Missouri, is now believed to originate from areas in southern Manitoba, Ontario, and Minnesota. Analysis of plant residues on artifacts revealed the cultivation of crops such as wild rice, beans, corn, and squash, suggesting a unique horticultural aspect possibly unparalleled in Saskatchewan.
Further studies on the artifacts at the Royal Saskatchewan Museum aim to deepen the understanding of this significant site. Strongarm expressed pride in these discoveries, emphasizing their role in validating the enduring presence of Indigenous peoples on the continent.