Ancient Stone Tool Discovery May Rewrite Newfoundland’s Prehistoric Timeline
A rare archaeological find on the Straight Shore could push back the known history of Indigenous presence in Newfoundland by millennia. Experts are now preparing for a summer expedition to investigate a site that may prove Paleo-First Nations people inhabited the island much earlier than previously recorded.
The Discovery on the Straight Shore
The discovery began last fall when a member of the Rooms was contacted regarding a stone tool found by a woman along the Straight Shore, just north of Bonavista Bay. Upon reviewing photos shared with the Provincial Archaeology Office, experts identified the artifact as a fluted Paleo-First Nations point.
This specific type of tool is considered an extremely rare find. The discovery is particularly significant given that of its potential age; experts believe the point could be more than 10,000 years old.
Shifting the Archaeological Record
Until now, the oldest known Indigenous sites in the province were located in southern Labrador, dating back approximately 9,000 years. If the dating of the Straight Shore artifact is confirmed, it would shift the timeline of human habitation in the region back by at least a thousand years.
While this specific find is new to the Provincial Archaeology Office, the discovery aligns with long-standing rumors of similar artifacts being found in the area over the years.
Next Steps for Investigation
The finder has agreed to lead the Provincial Archaeology Office to the exact location where the blade was discovered. Archaeologists plan to visit the area during the upcoming summer field season to conduct a thorough exploration of the site.
- The Artifact: A fluted Paleo-First Nations point found north of Bonavista Bay.
- Potential Age: Estimated to be over 10,000 years old.
- Historical Impact: Surpasses the previous record of 9,000-year-old sites in southern Labrador.
- Future Action: The Provincial Archaeology Office will explore the site this summer.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where was the tool found?
The tool was discovered along the Straight Shore, located just north of Bonavista Bay in Newfoundland.
Why is a “fluted point” significant?
Fluted points are characteristic of Paleo-First Nations technology and are extremely rare. Their presence suggests a much older human occupation than the currently established 9,000-year timeline for the province.
When will we know more about the site?
Archaeologists are expected to conduct field research this summer to determine the extent of the site and verify the age of the discovery. For more details on the find, you can follow updates via VOCM.