威斯康星考古学家绘制湖底16艘独木舟位置图，发现史前“停船区”

Core Insights - Archaeologists discovered over ten ancient dugout canoes at a prehistoric "dock" site left by Indigenous peoples in Wisconsin, indicating a long-term use of the area for canoe storage and sharing [1][2]. Group 1: Discovery and Significance - The Wisconsin Historical Society announced the mapping of 16 dugout canoes at the bottom of Lake Mendota, which is near a network of Indigenous trails, suggesting that these canoes were available for travelers [1][2]. - The discovery began in 2021 with a 1,200-year-old canoe, followed by a 3,000-year-old canoe and others dating back 4,500 and 2,000 years, indicating the site's historical importance [2][3]. - The oldest canoe among the 16 is dated to 5,200 years ago, making it the third oldest dugout canoe found in Eastern North America [3]. Group 2: Cultural Context - The area has been inhabited by the Ho-Chunk Nation, and the canoes reflect a deep connection between the Indigenous peoples and the land and waters [4]. - The region experienced a drought starting around 7,500 years ago, which may have influenced the use of the lake as a docking point for canoes, as the water depth was only about 4 feet during that time [3][4]. - Cultural officials from the Ho-Chunk Nation emphasized the significance of these canoes in understanding their historical presence and relationship with the land [4]. Group 3: Ongoing Research and Future Prospects - Archaeologists are collaborating with local Indigenous tribes to further explore the site, with hopes of discovering even older canoes, potentially dating back 7,000 years [4]. - The ongoing research highlights the importance of Indigenous narratives and histories in understanding the archaeological findings [5].