The Kitchenuhmaykoosib Inninuwug First Nation of Ontario invited a team of archaeologists to excavate the burial site of a 4,600-year-old Native man.

Tribal fishermen came upon the remains as water levels fell at Big Trout Lake. The First Nation asked Lakehead University to come to the site and what they found was unique in Canada, where laws prohibit excavation except in rate circumstances.

The man was in his late 30s or 40s and is said to have a strong, muscular build. Tests showed he subsisted on a diet based on fish and land mammals.

Evidence indicated that the man was purposely laid to rest at the site. The First Nation plans a reburial once excavation and studies are complete.

Get the Story:
Rare 4,600-year-old Ontario burial lifts lid on prehistoric Canada (The Independent 6/23)
Owen Jarus: 4600-year-old Skeleton Discovered in Northern Ontario (Heritage Key 6/22)