The Lake Michigan Stonehenge, a captivating prehistoric arrangement of stones discovered at the bottom of Lake Michigan, has captured the imagination of archaeologists, historians, and outdoor enthusiasts alike. This enigmatic structure, estimated to be around 9,000 years old, predates the construction of England’s Stonehenge by approximately 4,000 years, making it a truly remarkable and ancient find.
Exact Coordinates of the Lake Michigan Stonehenge
The exact coordinates of the Lake Michigan Stonehenge are not publicly disclosed due to security concerns and respect for the ancestral heritage of the local tribes. Dr. Mark Holley, the discoverer, has shared the location with the Grand Traverse Band of Ottawa and Chippewa tribes but has kept it secret from the general public.
Accessibility and Visitation
The site is not accessible to the general public due to its underwater location and the need to protect it from potential damage or exploitation. Only authorized researchers and archaeologists with the necessary expertise and permissions are allowed to visit the site.
Location and Description
The Lake Michigan Stonehenge is situated approximately 40 feet beneath the surface of Lake Michigan, within Grand Traverse Bay. The structure consists of a long line of stones over a mile in length, with individual stones ranging in size from that of a basketball to a compact car. One of the stones features a carved depiction of a mastodon, adding to the mystery and intrigue surrounding this remarkable find.
Age and Significance
The stones of the Lake Michigan Stonehenge are estimated to be around 9,000 years old, predating the construction of England’s Stonehenge by about 4,000 years. This makes the Lake Michigan Stonehenge one of the oldest known structures of its kind, offering a tantalizing glimpse into the lives and practices of the ancient inhabitants of the region.
Preservation and Research Efforts
Due to the sensitive nature of the site and the need to protect it from potential damage or exploitation, the exact coordinates of the Lake Michigan Stonehenge have not been made public. The Grand Traverse Band of Ottawa and Chippewa tribes, in collaboration with archaeologists and researchers, are working to preserve and study this remarkable ancient structure, ensuring that its secrets are unraveled with the utmost care and respect.
Conclusion
The Lake Michigan Stonehenge remains a captivating and enigmatic structure, offering a tantalizing glimpse into the distant past of the region. While the exact coordinates of the site are not publicly disclosed, the ongoing efforts to preserve and study this remarkable find continue to captivate the imagination of those interested in the rich history and cultural heritage of the Great Lakes region.
References:
- The Brighter Side News – “9,000-Year-Old ‘Stonehenge-Like’ Structure Found in Lake Michigan”
- WRKR – “Lake Michigan Stonehenge”
- Edge of Knowledge – “Underwater Stonehenge Found in Lake Michigan: Secrets of the Underground”
- Artnet News – “Prehistoric Structure Found in Lake Michigan May Be a 9,000-Year-Old ‘Stonehenge’”
- Holley Archaeology – “The Truth About the Stonehenge in Lake Michigan”