North American Stonehenge Lake Michigan is a captivating prehistoric structure that has captured the attention of archaeologists, historians, and outdoor enthusiasts alike. Situated beneath the waters of Lake Michigan, this remarkable site offers a glimpse into the sophisticated civilizations that once thrived in the region.
Estimated Age and Significance of the Stones
The stones found in Lake Michigan are estimated to be around 9,000 years old, making them significantly older than England’s Stonehenge, which dates back about 5,000 years. This ancient structure predates many of the world’s most renowned archaeological sites, underscoring the remarkable achievements of the people who constructed it.
One of the most intriguing features of the North American Stonehenge is the carving of a mastodon on one of the stones. This carving suggests that the ancient people who built the structure had knowledge of these now-extinct creatures and may have even hunted them. This discovery provides valuable insights into the lives and practices of these early inhabitants of the region.
Transportation and Placement of the Stones
The method of transporting the massive stones to their current location beneath Lake Michigan remains a mystery. Archaeologists have proposed that the stones were initially situated on the shoreline and were submerged as glaciers receded and formed the Great Lakes. This theory implies that the ancient people who constructed the structure were highly skilled and capable of complex engineering feats, even thousands of years ago.
The stones are arranged in a circular pattern, with an outer ring approximately 40 feet in diameter and an inner ring about 20 feet in diameter. The stones themselves are made of local granite and range in size from that of a basketball to that of a compact car, further demonstrating the impressive engineering and construction capabilities of the site’s builders.
Discovery and Authentication
The North American Stonehenge was first discovered in 2007 by Mark Holley, a professor of underwater archaeology at Northwestern Michigan University, while searching for shipwrecks. Although the site has not been fully authenticated by professional archaeologists due to the challenges of underwater exploration, the discovery has been documented and shared with the Grand Traverse Band of Ottawa and Chippewa tribes as a gesture of respect.
Similarities to Other Prehistoric Structures
The North American Stonehenge shares similarities with other prehistoric sites in the region, such as the stone structure on Beaver Island and a hunting complex found in Lake Huron. These structures, which are twice as old as Stonehenge and Egypt’s Great Pyramids, suggest that the Great Lakes region was home to sophisticated civilizations that predated many of the world’s most renowned ancient cultures.
Potential Purpose and Significance
The exact purpose of the North American Stonehenge remains a mystery, but it provides a captivating glimpse into the lives and practices of the region’s early inhabitants. Theories range from the structure serving as a ceremonial or astronomical site to it being a hunting or fishing complex. Regardless of its specific function, the site’s age and complexity underscore the remarkable achievements of these ancient people.
Current Status and Future Research
Due to the challenges of underwater archaeology and the need for specialized expertise, the North American Stonehenge remains largely unexplored. Further research and exploration are necessary to fully understand the significance and purpose of this ancient structure. As more is learned about this remarkable site, it is sure to continue captivating the imaginations of those interested in the rich history and cultural heritage of the Great Lakes region.
References:
– https://wrkr.com/lake-michigan-stonehenge/
– https://news.artnet.com/art-world/prehistoric-structure-lake-michigan-stonehenge-2432737
– https://arkeonews.net/the-mysterious-prehistoric-underwater-structure-beneath-lake-michigan/
– https://www.illinoisfishinghub.com/lake-michigan-stonehenge/