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McCandless Archeological Site facts for kids

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McCandless Archeological Site
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Nearest city Elkton, Maryland
Area 2.8 acres (1.1 ha)
MPS Delaware Chalcedony Complex TR
NRHP reference No. 83003775
Added to NRHP December 16, 1983

The McCandless Archeological Site is a special place where scientists study the past. It is an archeological site located near Elkton in Cecil County, Maryland. This site is part of a group of important locations. These sites help us understand how ancient people made tools and lived their daily lives.

It was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1983. This means it is a place important to the history of the United States.

What is the McCandless Site?

The McCandless Archeological Site is like a giant puzzle. It helps us learn about people who lived thousands of years ago. Archeologists dig carefully at sites like this. They look for clues left behind by ancient communities. These clues can be old tools, broken pottery, or even traces of old campfires.

Discovering Ancient Tools

One main reason the McCandless site is important is because of stone tools. People long ago did not have metal. They used stones to make tools for hunting, cutting, and building. This site shows us how they made these tools. Archeologists find different stages of tool making here. They might find raw stones, partly finished tools, and even broken pieces from when tools were being shaped.

  • Ancient people were very skilled at shaping stone.
  • They used special types of rock, like flint or chert.
  • These rocks could be chipped to create sharp edges.
  • Tools were used for many tasks, like preparing food.
  • They also used tools for making clothes or shelters.

Life in the Archaic Period

The McCandless site dates back to the Archaic period. This time in North America was from about 8,000 to 1,000 BC. People in the Archaic period were often nomadic. This means they moved from place to place. They followed animals for hunting. They also moved to find plants for food.

  • They lived in small family groups or tribes.
  • Their homes were often temporary shelters.
  • They gathered wild plants, nuts, and berries.
  • Hunting was a very important way to get food.
  • They used spears and atlatls (spear throwers).

Why is This Site Important?

The McCandless Archeological Site helps us understand ancient life. It shows how people used the land and its resources. By studying sites like this, we learn about human history. We can see how early communities adapted to their environment. It helps us connect with the very first people who lived in Maryland. Protecting these sites helps us keep learning about our past.

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