Archaeologists Uncover Ancient Canoe 'Parking Lot' in Wisconsin Lake

Archaeologists at the Wisconsin Historical Society announced Wednesday that they have mapped the location of 16 ancient canoes submerged in the lake bed of Lake Mendota in Madison. The site, which lies near a network of what were once indigenous trails, suggests that ancient people left the canoes there for anyone to use as they traveled, much like a modern-day e-bike rack. According to Tamara Thomsen, the state's maritime archaeologist, "It's a parking spot that's been used for millennia, over and over." The discoveries began in 2021 when archaeologists uncovered the remains of a 1,200-year-old canoe submerged in 24 feet of water in Lake Mendota. The following year, they found the remains of a 3,000-year-old canoe, and in 2023, they discovered a 4,500-year-old canoe. The canoes were found in a relatively small area, approximately 10 feet by 20 feet, and were likely left behind by indigenous people as they traveled along the lake's shoreline. The site is significant not only because of the age and number of canoes found but also because it provides insight into the lives of ancient people who lived in the region. According to Thomsen, "The fact that we have 16 canoes in one spot suggests that this was a place where people would stop and leave their canoes, much like a modern-day parking lot." The canoes were likely used for transportation, fishing, and other purposes, and their presence in the lake bed suggests that the area was an important stopping point for indigenous people. The discovery of the ancient canoes has also sparked interest in the history of the region. According to Dr. James Skibo, a professor of anthropology at the University of Wisconsin-Madison, "The fact that we have canoes from different time periods suggests that the area was inhabited by different groups of people, each with their own unique culture and traditions." Skibo notes that the discovery of the canoes will provide valuable information about the lives of ancient people and their relationship with the environment. The current status of the site is that the Wisconsin Historical Society is working to preserve the canoes and the surrounding area. According to Thomsen, "We are taking steps to protect the site and ensure that it is preserved for future generations." The society is also working to raise awareness about the discovery and its significance, and to provide educational programs and exhibits about the history of the region. In the coming months, the Wisconsin Historical Society plans to conduct further research and excavation at the site. According to Thomsen, "We are excited to learn more about the history of the region and to share our findings with the public." The discovery of the ancient canoes is a significant find that will provide valuable insights into the lives of ancient people and their relationship with the environment.