Hedden Site facts for kids
Quick facts for kids |
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Hedden Site
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| Nearest city | Kennebunk, Maine |
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| Area | 32 acres (13 ha) |
| NRHP reference No. | 91001515 |
| Added to NRHP | October 16, 1991 |
The Hedden Site is a very old archaeological spot in Kennebunk, Maine. It's also known as Site 4.10 by the Maine Archaeological Survey. Scientists have figured out that people lived here around 8,550 years before the Common Era (c. 8550 BCE).
This site is special because it's one of the few places in Maine that hasn't been disturbed. This means it hasn't been plowed or built over. Because of this, it's a great place to learn about ancient times. The Hedden Site was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1991. This means it's recognized as an important historical place.
What is the Hedden Site?
The Hedden Site is named after Mark Hedden, an archaeologist who found it. It's located in an area with sandy, dune-like hills. These hills are now covered with grasses and blueberry bushes. There's no sign that farmers ever plowed this land. This is why the site is so well-preserved.
Scientists believe these sand dunes were formed about 11,000 years ago. Most other similar sites in Maine have been changed over time. There's some evidence that a fire once swept through the area. But it's not clear if people caused this fire.
How was the site discovered?
The site was found during a survey in 1990. Archaeologists were digging small test pits to look for old artifacts. Most of these pits didn't find anything. But then, Mark Hedden spotted a stone flake on the ground. This small piece of stone was a clue that people had been there long ago.
After finding the flake, more test pits were dug around that spot. This is where most of the ancient items were found.
What was found at the Hedden Site?
Archaeologists found many stone pieces at the site. These stones came from different places. Some came from as far away as the Hudson River valley. Others came from quarries in northern Maine, like the Munsungan area.
One important find was a well-made stone tool. It was a chert "endscraper." This tool was likely used for scraping animal hides or wood. Another broken piece of a tool was also found. It was still very sharp, even after thousands of years. It looked like it had been used once and then left behind.
