Sites of Interest
Some of these sites have been shown to us by landowners, others by interested individuals. The CCASC believes these sites have a high likelihood of archaeological significance. If you have a site that you would like to have evaluated or want more information on these sites, please contact us. Exact site locations are not disclosed.
Ancient Delaware Copper Mine
This site is on the property of the historic Delaware Mine, and is one of very few ancient copper mines open to the public. It is a fissure deposit of copper that was first extracted using grooved hammer stones by Native Americans in the distant past. This site was excavated by historic miners before they discovered the deposit that became the Delaware Mine.
The Ditch Site
An ancient copper mine located on a fissure deposit, this site has been scoured by historic copper miners, picked over by interested locals, and has suffered some damage from clear cut logging. The surrounding area appears to be relatively intact.
Rock Shelters
An unusual geologic formation is found in a number of places in Houghton County. Layers of sandstone of varying depth and consistency underlay much of the area. When topography and water expose a weaker layer beneath a more durable layer erosion may create an over hang or cave, which is a potential rock shelter.
Huron Bay Site
Located on an Nippising age shore line this site revealed a number of ground stone tools on a sandstone bedrock outcrop, exposed by an ATV trail. Unfortunately this site has been damaged by the ATV trail and recent logging activity.
Copper Harbor Petroglyphs
Several distinctive petroglyphs are found on a basalt outcrop near the Nippising era water level. This site is controversial and many professional archaeologist claim it to all be modern graffiti. Due to similarity to other Native American symbols and a high degree of artistic ability, this site should be investigated further before discounting the authenticity.