Archaeological excavations at the Collier Lodge site along the Kankakee River are offering valuable insights into the region’s rich history. Led by anthropologist Mark Schurr of the University of Notre Dame, the site has yielded artifacts representing nearly every time period in Indiana’s history. The lodge’s strategic location on a former marsh created a natural crossing point, attracting human activity for over 10,000 years.
Schurr’s team is using modern techniques to analyze artifacts, including spear points, pottery, and metal fragments. By studying the chemical composition of mussel shells, archaeologists can determine the climate of the time, revealing that the Little Ice Age was colder and drier than present. This research suggests that, despite the harsher climate, the marsh provided ample resources for human settlement.
Collier Lodge was originally built as a hunting lodge in 1898 and later served as a general store and private residence. Due to its deteriorating condition, the lodge was demolished, and plans are underway to construct a replica nearby to serve as a museum. The surrounding acreage, owned by Kankakee Valley Historical Society president John Hudson, provides ample space for continued archaeological exploration.
The site’s significance lies in its continuous use over thousands of years, making it a valuable resource for understanding the cultural and environmental history of the region. Schurr encourages volunteers and visitors to participate in the ongoing excavation, offering a unique opportunity to engage with archaeology firsthand and contribute to the ongoing research.
