Archaeologists have found one of the oldest settlements in North America.A remarkable archaeological discovery near Sturgeon Lake First Nation in Saskatchewan, Canada, has revealed an approximately 11,000-year-old pre-contact Indigenous settlement—one of the oldest known on the continent—that challenges conventional views of early North American history.Located along the North Saskatchewan River, roughly 5 kilometers (3 miles) north of Prince Albert, the site known as Âsowanânihk ("A Place to Cross" in Cree) provides evidence of a long-term village rather than a transient camp. Excavations have uncovered fire pits, stone tools, lithic materials, charcoal layers indicating fire management practices, and remains of large bison, including the extinct Bison antiquus (which could exceed 4,400 pounds or 2,000 kilograms in weight). These findings suggest sophisticated hunting techniques, environmental stewardship, and sustained occupation shortly after glacial retreat made the area habitable.The discovery aligns with Cree oral histories describing the region as a longstanding cultural and trade hub, offering physical corroboration of Indigenous presence and complexity far earlier than many archaeological models had assumed. It also prompts reconsideration of migration theories, such as the Bering Strait hypothesis, by affirming the deep, continuous roots affirmed in Indigenous traditions.Researchers from the University of Saskatchewan (including Dr. Glenn Stuart) and the University of Calgary are collaborating with the community-led Âsowanânihk Council—a group comprising Elders, Knowledge Keepers, youth, educators, and archaeologists—to study and safeguard the site."This discovery challenges the outdated idea that early Indigenous peoples were solely nomadic," noted Dr. Glenn Stuart. "The evidence of long-term settlement and land stewardship suggests a deep-rooted presence."Chief Christine Longjohn of Sturgeon Lake First Nation emphasized its broader significance: "This isn’t just archaeology. This is truth, memory, and proof. Our ancestors were here—building, thriving, and shaping this land long before history books began to notice."Future plans include developing a cultural interpretive center and land-based education programs for youth. However, the site remains vulnerable to erosion and nearby industrial development, prompting urgent calls for protection from local, provincial, and federal authorities.["11,000-year-old Indigenous village uncovered near Sturgeon Lake." University of Saskatchewan, 2024]Science and facts💡
Archaeologists have found one of the oldest settlements in North America.A remarkable archaeological discovery near Sturgeon Lake First Nation in Saskatchewan, Canada, has revealed an approximately 11,000-year-old pre-contact Indigenous settlement—one of the oldest known on the continent—that challenges conventional views of early North American history.Located along the North Saskatchewan River, ...
