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. Recently, archaeologists unveiled their latest findings during presentations at the Moose Jaw library.
Bill Strongarm, a senator with the Federation of Sovereign Indigenous Nations from the Touchwood Agency Tribal Council, expressed satisfaction at the discovery of the site and its artifacts. Describing it as a sacred traditional location, Strongarm mentioned that the site served as a camping ground for the Saulteaux and Assiniboine people on their journey to the Cypress Hills in southwest Saskatchewan. He speculated that these tribes likely halted at the site for water, food resupply, and some may have even stayed through the winter.
Strongarm emphasized that the artifacts represent just a fragment of the stories waiting to be explored about Indigenous communities. He advocated for the establishment of a heritage center to ensure the preservation of the area.
Alan Korejbo, a senior archaeologist at Respect Heritage Consulting, disclosed that archaeologists were brought in due to an impending highway project that would impact the site. He revealed that his involvement with the site began in 2024, while the former landowners, Paul and Bill Davies, initiated excavations in the 1950s.
The artifacts found at the site span both pre- and post-European contact periods, with pre-contact items indicating human activity in the area for over 12,000 years. The discovery has garnered significant interest, as evidenced by the large turnout at the library presentation, leaving Korejbo impressed and astonished.
The array of artifacts includes stone and bone tools like projectile points, scrapers, awls, and knives, some of which were crafted from bison bones. Korejbo highlighted the significance of plant and pottery evidence at the site, particularly noting the presence of pottery uncommon in southern Saskatchewan, initially believed to be from Missouri but later determined to likely originate from southern Manitoba, Ontario, and Minnesota.
Further analysis revealed microscopic plant residue on the artifacts, indicating the cultivation of crops such as wild rice, beans, corn, and squash. This agricultural aspect surprised Korejbo, suggesting the possibility of food cultivation alongside gathering, potentially making this site unique in Saskatchewan.
Korejbo raised questions about the origin of the corn and beans found at the site, pondering whether they were traded or locally grown. The artifacts have been transferred to the Royal Saskatchewan Museum for in-depth study, aiming to uncover more insights about the site.
In conclusion, Strongarm expressed pride in the discoveries, emphasizing how they validate the enduring presence of Indigenous peoples on the continent.