Onion Portage Archeological District
Onion Portage Archeological District, Archaeological site in Kobuk Valley National Park, Alaska, US
The Onion Portage District spans across the northern banks of the Kobuk River, featuring stratified layers that contain artifacts from nine distinct complexes.
First identified in 1940 by Arctic archaeologist J. Louis Giddings, the site revealed evidence of continuous human occupation dating from 6500 BC to AD 1700.
Local Inupiat hunters maintain traditional practices at this location, using the river characteristics during seasonal caribou migrations across the Kobuk River.
Access to the archaeological district requires chartered air transportation, and specific location details remain restricted to protect the site from potential damage.
The excavated materials at Onion Portage have established the most complete cultural chronology for Arctic settlements in northwestern Alaska.
Location: Northwest Arctic Borough
GPS coordinates: 67.09690,-158.29800
Latest update: March 4, 2025 22:29
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