When did the first humans arrive in Hancock County? The earliest possible Indian artifacts found in Hancock County date back to 9000 B.C.
There are 95 identifiable archaeological sites in the county, which cover the Paleo Indians to the Archaic (or ancient) period along with Woodland Indian Culture. Arrowheads along with other stone implements are still found in the area.
In addition, a few skeletons have been discovered in gravel pits over the years. For example, on the north side of the National Road, west of Sugar Creek, a skeleton with relics were found many years ago.
According to the “Richman History of Hancock County,” there was very little evidence of mound builders. The state geologist writes that in 1885 “there is, in section 11 Township 16, range 7 some very curious earthworks probably belonging to the age of Mound Builders.
“These are located on the farm of Freeman H. Braddock, and lie south side of Brandywine, at the extreme point of a very abrupt bend of that creek.
“A ridge of clay land some 10 feet above the creek bottom and covered with Oak timber, projects into a piece of marshy land to within 3 feet of the creek. From this point a levee, 3 feet high and 10 feet wide, has been constructed to the ancient bed of the stream.
“The excavation which furnished the earth for the embankment is distinctly seen in the projecting point of high ground, and immediately back are three pits about 8 feet in diameter and 6 feet deep, and east of these about 10 feet are two other pits of the same dimensions, but not quite so deep.
“These are evidently artificial and ancient, for large trees are now growing in the sides of the pits and embankment. About 50 yards east of these pits was formerly a small pond, which may have been an excavation but probably was natural. It is now drained. When, what purpose these works were made, we venture no conjecture.”
Enough. I have told you every thing that I know and some things I don’t. Talk to me.
You can write to Joe Skvarenina at [email protected] or in care of the Daily Reporter at 22 W. New Road, Greenfield, IN, 46140.
