Lasanen Site, archaeological site in Michigan, United States
The Lasanen Site is an archaeological location in Michigan listed on the National Register of Historic Places. It covers less than an acre and sits on a small hill overlooking the Straits of Mackinac, with views of the surrounding landscape and water.
The site was discovered in 1966 when landowner Dr. W. C. Lasanen found human bones while digging a foundation. Specialists from Michigan State University then conducted excavations in 1966 and 1967, documenting nineteen graves that appeared to date to the late 1600s and possibly connected to early European explorers visiting the region.
The site served as a burial place for Iroquois peoples who followed specific customs for honoring their dead. The arrangement of nineteen graves and the burial style reveal how these early inhabitants cared for those who passed away and structured their communities.
The site is located in St. Ignace and can be explored on foot, though visitors should walk carefully to avoid damaging anything. Informational signs on site explain the archaeological findings and the history of the burials.
The discovery happened by chance when the landowner found bones while digging and notified authorities. This quick response allowed archaeologists to preserve and document the graves before further damage could occur.
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