Bennett Rockshelter facts for kids

The Bennett Rockshelter is a special place in Old Lyme, Connecticut. It's a prehistoric archaeological site, which means it's a place where people lived a very long time ago. Think of it as a natural cave or overhang in the rocks that ancient people used for shelter.

This rockshelter was an active campsite during a time called the Woodland period. This period lasted from about the year 0 CE (the start of the Common Era) to 1000 CE. That's a thousand years of history! The Bennett Rockshelter was added to the National Register of Historic Places in July 1987. This list recognizes important historical places in the United States. Today, the site is on private land covered in woodlands.

What is a Rockshelter?

A rockshelter is like a natural overhang formed by a rock cliff. It's not a deep cave, but more like a shallow alcove. These natural shelters were perfect for early humans. They offered protection from rain, wind, and even wild animals.

Why were Rockshelters Important?

Imagine living thousands of years ago without houses. Rockshelters were safe spots to rest and gather. People could build fires inside them to stay warm. They also used them to prepare food and make tools. These places were central to daily life for ancient communities.

Life at Bennett Rockshelter

Archaeologists study sites like the Bennett Rockshelter. They dig carefully to find clues about the past. At this site, they found evidence that people lived here for a long time. They left behind tools, pottery, and other items.

Who lived here?

The people who used the Bennett Rockshelter were part of the Woodland Period culture. They were hunter-gatherers, meaning they hunted animals and gathered plants for food. They also started to make pottery and grow some crops. This period was a time of many changes for early Native Americans.

What did they eat?

People living at the rockshelter likely hunted deer, turkeys, and other small animals. They also fished in nearby rivers and streams. For plants, they gathered nuts, berries, and roots. Sometimes, they might have even started to grow early forms of corn or beans.

What tools did they use?

Archaeologists often find stone tools at rockshelters. These might include arrowheads for hunting. They also find tools for scraping animal hides or grinding plants. Pottery shards are common too. These pieces tell us about the pots they used for cooking and storing food.

Why is Bennett Rockshelter Important Today?

The Bennett Rockshelter is important because it helps us learn about the past. It gives us a peek into how ancient people lived in Connecticut. Each artifact found tells a part of their story.

Learning from the Past

By studying sites like this, we understand more about early human behavior. We learn about their daily routines and their skills. It helps us appreciate the history of the land we live on. It also shows us how people adapted to their environment.

Protecting History

Being on the National Register of Historic Places means the Bennett Rockshelter is recognized as a special place. It's important to protect these sites. They are like outdoor museums. They hold valuable information that helps us understand our shared human history.