Potomac Palisades Site facts for kids
Quick facts for kids |
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Potomac Palisades Site
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![]() Mound in the unexcavated site
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Location | Overlooking the Potomac River at MacArthur Boulevard and Foxhall Road |
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Nearest city | Washington, D.C. |
Area | 1 acre (0.40 ha) |
NRHP reference No. | 82001714 |
Added to NRHP | April 15, 1982 |
The Potomac Palisades Site is an exciting archaeological site located in Washington, D.C., United States. An archaeological site is a place where people in the past lived or worked, and where we can find clues about their lives. This special area covers about 1 acre of land.
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What is the Potomac Palisades Site?
This site is a place where archaeologists have found evidence of ancient human activity. It helps us learn about the history of people who lived in the area long ago. The Potomac Palisades Site is just one of many important historical spots along the Potomac River.
Where is This Special Place?
You can find the Potomac Palisades Site near the intersection of MacArthur Boulevard and Foxhall Road. It sits right along the beautiful Potomac River. This location was likely important for ancient people because of its access to water and resources.
In 1984, a special survey was done in the area. This survey confirmed that the northern bank of the Potomac River is full of archaeological treasures. It showed that many ancient groups used this land.
What Did Archaeologists Find?
During excavations at the site, archaeologists discovered many interesting artifacts. Artifacts are objects made or used by humans in the past. These finds give us clues about how ancient people lived.
One important artifact found was a triangle-shaped projectile point. This is a type of stone tool, like an arrowhead or spear point. It would have been used for hunting or other daily tasks.
Tools from the Past
The Potomac Palisades Site was mainly used during the Late Archaic period. This period was a very long time ago in North America. During this time, the site was a busy workshop for making stone tools.
A "lithic workshop" means it was a place where people shaped stones into tools. They would chip and grind rocks to create useful items. These tools were essential for survival, helping them hunt, prepare food, and build shelters.
Why is it Important?
Because of its great archaeological value, the Potomac Palisades Site is very important. It helps us understand the early history of Washington, D.C., and the people who lived there.
In 1982, the site was officially listed on the National Register of Historic Places. This is a special list of places in the United States that are important to history. Being on this list helps protect the site so future generations can continue to learn from it.