Schoonmaker Reef, Fossilized reef in Wauwatosa, Wisconsin, US
The Schoonmaker Reef extends as a massive 600-foot rock outcrop in the Menomonee River valley, composed primarily of dolomite sedimentary formations.
Discovered in 1844 by Increase A. Lapham and Fisk Day, this 425-million-year-old formation became the first ancient reef identified in North America in 1862.
The site contains numerous Silurian period fossils, making it a significant location for geological research and education in the United States.
The reef is situated north of West State Street, between North 66th Street and North 64th Street extended, in the city of Wauwatosa.
Between 1838 and 1909, the reef served as an active quarry and lime production site, operated by the Schoonmaker family after whom it was named.
Location: Wisconsin
GPS coordinates: 43.04722,-87.99361
Latest update: March 9, 2025 08:18
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