Around 240,000 artifacts discovered at an archaeological site in Moose Jaw, Sask., are shedding light on the rich human history in the Wakamow Valley. The latest findings were presented by archaeologists at the Moose Jaw library recently.
Bill Strongarm, a senator from the Federation of Sovereign Indigenous Nations at the Touchwood Agency Tribal Council, expressed his satisfaction with the discovery of the site and its artifacts, emphasizing its significance as a sacred traditional location. He mentioned that the site served as a stopover for Saulteaux and Assiniboine people en route to Cypress Hills in southwest Saskatchewan, where they likely camped, replenished supplies, and some even stayed through the winter.
Strongarm emphasized the importance of further research into the artifacts to uncover more stories about the Indigenous people, proposing the establishment of a heritage center for preserving the area. He hopes that the artifacts will reveal insights into how Indigenous communities adapted to their surroundings.
Alan Korejbo, a senior archaeologist at Respect Heritage Consulting, shared that the archaeological work was initiated due to an impending highway construction near the site. The artifacts found date back to both pre- and post-European contact periods, suggesting a human presence in the area for over 12,000 years. The artifacts, including stone and bone tools like projectile points and knives – some crafted from bison bones, have captured the interest of the local community.
Korejbo noted the significance of plant and pottery evidence at the site, especially highlighting the unexpected presence of pottery not typically found in southern Saskatchewan. Further analysis revealed connections to regions in southern Manitoba, Ontario, and Minnesota. Additionally, microscopic examination of plant residues on the artifacts unveiled evidence of wild rice, beans, corn, and squash, indicating a potential combination of food cultivation and gathering, a unique aspect possibly exclusive to this site in Saskatchewan.
The artifacts have been sent to the Royal Saskatchewan Museum for in-depth study, aiming to enhance the understanding of this archaeological site. Strongarm expressed pride in the discoveries, emphasizing their importance in validating the enduring presence and history of Indigenous communities on the continent.
