Archaeology

Archaeology. Sanilac Petroglyphs Historic State Park. , Archaeologists have studied the Sanilac Petroglyphs site since the 1920s. They have recorded these carvings through drawings, photographs and plaster casts, and excavated in the area around the rock outcrop., Stone tools and pottery found during investigations show that native people occupied the area intermittently over roughly the last 8,000 years and help date the creation of the petroglyphs to within the last 1.500 years. A prominent carving featuring a bow and arrow also suggests this time period, which followed the introduction of this technology to the region., Artifacts are sparse at the site, leading archaeologists to think that native people did not establish a permanent village or camp at this location More likely this was a special place visited occasionally by small groups of people for brief periods of time., Preserving The Petroglyphs , Archaeology helps us understand the history of this site and how it has changed over time. Future research using new technologies may teach us more than we know today. This is one reason why preserving archaeological sites is so important., These carvings in soft sandstone are easily damaged by rain wind, frost, plants, animals and human touch. Many faded naturally throughout the centuries, though some were vandalized or even chipped away and stolen. You can help protect the by not climbing on or touching the rock, and by reporting damage to park staff., During your visit please investigate only with your eyes, respecting historic features and leaving any artifacts you may find in place. Metal detecting and artifact collecting are not allowed in Michigan State Historic Parks Please help us preserve our important places to inspire future generations