A Significant Find: The Cottonwood River Artifact
A remarkable discovery near New Ulm, Minnesota, reveals a projectile point estimated to be between 7,000 and 9,000 years old. This artifact has drawn the interest of the Science Museum of Minnesota and local historians. Found by William Eibner and Wade Cordes on a Cottonwood River sandbar, it offers insights into the habits and movements of early humans during the post-glacial era. Ed Fleming, the Museum's Director of Anthropology, closely examined this important find.
Analyzing the Ancient Tool
Ed Fleming provided an analysis of this ancient hunting tool, which is made from Burlington chert— a high-quality stone sourced from the Mississippi River Valley. This projectile point likely functioned as part of a spear, reflecting the hunting practices of early human inhabitants. The choice of Burlington chert indicates migratory patterns, as this stone is generally located in southeastern Iowa and northeastern Missouri. To further ascertain its origins and purpose, lithics expert Dan Lendt will conduct additional examinations.
A Dedicated Community Effort
Eibner and Cordes discovered this artifact during their explorations, a hobby Eibner has pursued for seven years focused on mineral and fossil hunting. Their alertness, especially after floods altered the river landscape, led to this significant find. They promptly reported the discovery for public awareness, contributing to the understanding of regional history rather than keeping it to themselves. The projectile point was presented to the New Ulm City Manager and subsequently entrusted to the Brown County Historical Society for preservation and display considerations.
Conclusion: A Call for Ongoing Discoveries
The find by Eibner and Cordes highlights the rich historical narratives hidden beneath our feet. Their choice to publicize the discovery demonstrates a strong commitment to enhancing collective knowledge, inspiring future artifact seekers to pursue similar efforts. As researchers like Fleming investigate these early tools, they help create a clearer picture of prehistoric life and movements prior to the establishment of modern settlements. The Cottonwood River artifact stands as a testament to our past and encourages further exploration and understanding of history's untold stories.
