28 August 2025 The Future is the Product of the Past

An 11,000-Year-Old Settlement Redefines Early Indigenous Civilizations in North America

A groundbreaking archaeological discovery near Sturgeon Lake First Nation is rewriting the narrative of early Indigenous civilizations in North America, revealing an astonishing 11,000-year-old pre-contact settlement that stands as one of the continent’s oldest known Indigenous sites.

This remarkable find not only challenges long-held beliefs about the timeline of organized societies in the region but also positions the site alongside some of the world’s most iconic ancient landmarks, including Egypt’s Great Pyramids, England’s Stonehenge, and Türkiye’s Göbekli Tepe—each a testament to the profound impact of early human civilization.

Leading the charge to protect and study this historic site is the Âsowanânihk Council, which translates to “A Place to Cross” in Cree. Collaborating with archaeologists from the University of Saskatchewan and the University of Calgary, the council—comprising Elders, Knowledge Keepers, educators, youth, and academics—demonstrates a steadfast commitment to preserving this invaluable piece of history for future generations.

Situated approximately five kilometers north of Prince Albert along the North Saskatchewan River, the site was initially discovered by researcher and avocational archaeologist Dave Rondeau. During a survey of the area, Rondeau observed notable erosion along the riverbank, which had uncovered a wealth of artifacts, signaling the presence of a significant archaeological site.

Dave Rondeau expressed his profound reaction to the discovery, stating, “Upon seeing the layers of history emerging from the soil, I felt the weight of generations looking back at me.” He emphasized the significance of the findings, noting, “Now that the evidence has validated my initial instincts, this site is challenging everything we believed and has the potential to alter the narrative of early Indigenous civilizations in North America.”

Evidence indicates that the site served as a long-term settlement rather than a temporary hunting camp. Among the significant findings are stone tools, fire pits, and lithic materials utilized in toolmaking. Layers of charcoal suggest that early Indigenous inhabitants engaged in fire management practices, which align with established oral traditions. Additionally, the discovery of large bison remains offers valuable insights into early hunting techniques and the evolution of the species.

An 11,000-Year-Old Settlement Redefines Early Indigenous Civilizations in North America. Credit: Sturgeon Lake First Nation
An 11,000-Year-Old Settlement Redefines Early Indigenous Civilizations in North America. Credit: Sturgeon Lake First Nation

Dr. Glenn Stuart highlighted the significance of the discovery, stating that it challenges the outdated notion that early Indigenous peoples were exclusively nomadic. He noted, “The evidence of long-term settlement and land stewardship indicates a deep-rooted presence in the region.” Furthermore, he emphasized that the findings raise important questions about the Bering Strait Theory and support the oral histories of Indigenous communities, which assert that they have inhabited these lands for countless generations.

The landscape, shaped by glacial activity and extensive flooding over millennia, has undergone significant transformation. Researchers posit that the site, which currently resembles a buffalo jump, was once home to multiple bison pounds and kill sites. The findings indicate that early Indigenous hunters employed strategic methods to harvest bison, including the now-extinct Bison antiquus, which could weigh up to 2,000 kilograms.

This site serves as compelling evidence of the profound and enduring presence of Indigenous peoples in the region, reinforcing knowledge that has been transmitted through generations. Oral histories have long characterized the area as a vital cultural and trade hub, and this discovery provides tangible evidence that substantiates those narratives.

Chief Christine Longjohn emphasized the significance of the discovery, stating, “This finding serves as a powerful reminder that our ancestors were present, building, thriving, and shaping the land long before history books recognized our existence.” She expressed the sentiment that Indigenous voices have been marginalized for too long, asserting, “This site speaks for us, demonstrating that our roots are deep and unbroken. It embodies the footsteps of our ancestors, reflecting their struggles, triumphs, and wisdom. Each stone and artifact stands as a testament to their strength. We are not merely reclaiming history; we are reclaiming our rightful place within it.”

Looking ahead, the Âsowanânihk Council intends to collaborate with archaeologists to secure funding for ongoing research and preservation efforts. Plans are also in place to establish a cultural interpretive center aimed at promoting education, tourism, and community engagement, with a focus on integrating youth into land-based learning initiatives to enhance cultural knowledge and connections to the land.

Despite its immense significance, the site is threatened by logging and industrial activities. Elder Willie Ermine and the Âsowanânihk Council have expressed concerns about potential destruction and are advocating for immediate protective measures. The Sturgeon Lake First Nation and the council are urging local, provincial, and national stakeholders to support efforts to safeguard and study this historic site.

University of Saskatchewan

Cover Image Credit: The site is located about five kilometres north of Prince Albert along the North Saskatchewan River. Credit: Sturgeon Lake First Nation

Related Articles

The Famous Cueva de Ardales cave in Spain was used by ancient humans for over 50,000 years

8 June 2022

8 June 2022

Cueva de Ardales cave in Málaga, Spain,  famed for the extensive prehistoric art on its walls was excavated for the...

The Light of the Patara Lighthouse will Shine Again After Centuries

1 March 2025

1 March 2025

The ancient lighthouse in Patara, built by Roman Emperor Nero and destroyed by natural disasters, has reached the final stages...

Egyptian archaeologists discovered 16 meters long ancient papyrus with spells from the Book of the Dead

19 January 2023

19 January 2023

Archaeologists working in Egypt’s Saqqara region have unearthed a 16-meter-long ancient papyrus for the first time in a century. Saqqara...

A pendant made of mammoth bone with ‘mysterious dots’ could be the oldest known example of ornate jewelry in Eurasia

26 November 2021

26 November 2021

The fragments of an ancient pendant made of mammoth ivory were unearthed in Poland, and are regarded to be the...

Archaeologists Discovered Medieval Silver Communion Set and 70 Silver Coins in Hungary

16 June 2024

16 June 2024

A 14th-century silver communion set (chalice and wafer holder) and a treasure trove of 70 silver coins were discovered in...

Evidence of the Birth of Archaic Monotheism in Anatolia found at Oluz Höyük, “Havangah prayer at Oluz Höyük”

27 March 2022

27 March 2022

Oluz Höyük, located 25 kilometres west of Amasya, is an ancient city which has rich findings of religious structuring. During...

Rare 13th-Century Coin Hoard Discovered at Berlin’s Molkenmarkt Excavations

10 August 2025

10 August 2025

Archaeologists have uncovered a remarkable treasure dating back to the 13th century during the ongoing excavations at Molkenmarkt, the historic...

A 1,700-year-old trident discovered in Assos ancient city in Türkiye

10 October 2023

10 October 2023

An iron trident, believed to be used for fishing, dating to the 3rd or 4th century A.D. has been discovered...

More evidence shows Vikings came to North America before Columbus

22 May 2023

22 May 2023

Although the discovery of North America is synonymous with Christopher Columbus, new research reveals that Viking sailors landed on the...

A First in Denmark: Rare 4th Century Roman Helmet and Chainmail Found

3 February 2025

3 February 2025

Archaeologists have recently unearthed a massive stockpile of weapons near Hedensted, Denmark, buried 1,500 years ago by an ancient chief....

An 8,000-year-old number stone found in Yeşilova Mound

27 July 2023

27 July 2023

The 8,000-year-old numeral stone, which is thought to have been used while calculating during the Yeşilova Höyük (Yeşilova Mound) excavation...

1.5-Million-year-old Footprints have Revealed the Co-Existence of two Ancient Human Species in Kenya

30 November 2024

30 November 2024

Thanks to a set of preserved footprints on the ancient shores of Lake Turkana in Kenya, researchers have uncovered the...

Authorities in New York have been accused by leading academics of repatriating fake Roman artifacts to Lebanon

19 November 2023

19 November 2023

Leading academics from France and the United Kingdom have accused New York authorities of returning fake Roman artifacts to Lebanon....

Archaeologists Uncover Elegant Rare Blue Frescoes of an Ancient Sanctuary in Pompeii

10 June 2024

10 June 2024

Archaeologists digging away at ash covering the ancient city of Pompeii have uncovered a room with walls frescoed in an...

Neanderthal Fingerprint on 50,000-Year-Old Pebble Could Be Europe’s Oldest Portable Artwork

29 May 2025

29 May 2025

New analysis reveals that a pebble marked with ochre and a fingerprint could be the earliest known example of transportable...