Finley Site facts for kids

The Finley Site is an important archaeological site located in Sweetwater County, Wyoming. An archaeological site is a place where people in the past lived or did things. Scientists can learn about history by studying the objects left behind.

Discovering the Finley Site

The Finley Site was first explored in 1940. A person named Orion B. Finley found some special stone tools on the ground. These tools are called projectile points. He found them near a sandy area known as the Killpecker Dune Field. This discovery led to more investigations at the site.

What are Projectile Points?

Projectile points are sharp tools, like arrowheads or spear points. Ancient people used them for hunting animals. Finding these points helps archaeologists understand how people lived long ago.

Ancient History at the Site

The Finley Site dates back to a very old time called the late Paleoindian Period. This was about 9,000 years ago. The Paleoindians were some of the first people to live in North America.

Important Stone Tools

The projectile points found at the Finley Site were very special. They helped scientists identify a new type of tool called the "Eden point." Other types of points, like Scottsbluff Type I and II, were also found. These tools connect the people who lived at the Finley Site to a larger group known as the Cody Cultural Complex. This complex refers to a shared way of life and tool-making style among ancient groups.

Protecting the Past

The Finley Site is a very important historical place. Because of its value, it was added to the National Register of Historic Places on November 17, 2010. This list helps protect special places in the United States. It makes sure these sites are preserved for future generations to study and learn from.