January 1, Indiana Riverbank Yields Ancient Skull Find

Wyatt’s Take

• A local hobbyist found a human skull while walking along an Indiana river.
• Tests revealed the skull is more than 4,000 years old, likely from a Native American.
• The discovery highlights how regular folks can make history right in their own backyard.

In Indiana, a sharp-eyed hobbyist spotted an old skull near the West Fork of the Whitewater River earlier this year. He quickly reported it, and investigators confirmed it belonged to a human.

Samples went to labs for testing, and after months of analysis, experts found it’s about 4,270 years old. The skull probably belonged to a Native American who lived long before the country was founded.

The discovery was relayed to state officials and tribal archaeologists.

“Due to the discovery’s antiquity and location near a waterway, the Indiana Department of Natural Resources (DNR) was advised early in the investigation and has been formally notified of the radiocarbon results.”

Officials don’t know yet which tribe the remains came from, but they’re working with the Miami Tribe and others to solve the mystery.

“The remains could belong to an individual associated with any number of tribes, including the Shawnee, Potawatomi, Delaware, or Cherokee, among others,” said Richardson.

The investigation is paused due to a government shutdown.

Local authorities are pushing for respectful handling of the remains.

“The preservation of historical and cultural heritage is a responsibility shared by all, and we are committed to handling this matter with the respect and diligence it deserves.”

This case reminds us that careful eyes and neighborly diligence can uncover our country’s oldest stories. Stay watchful in your own communities—history could be right under your feet.

Wyatt Matters

This find shows the value of everyday folks staying alert and looking out for their land and community. Preserving our shared past is an important part of keeping our heartland spirit strong.

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