Native American

Native American projectile points.

Lenape in the Delaware River Valley

In the late 1950s, the proposed construction of the Tocks Island Dam increased interest in creating historical and archeological records from this part of the Delaware River Valley. Although there had been excavations in the past, this was a larger effort than ever before. Historians and archeologists were summoned to identify, record, and salvage data before the valley was flooded. Archeologists began their surveys in 1959, and by the mid-60s they recognized that the area offered a rich and well-preserved human history stretching back over 10,000 years. This lined up with Lenape oral traditions of inhabiting the area since time immemorial.

Archeologists known for their work in the area include Dr. Herbert Kraft who studied the archeology of the Delaware River Valley for over 50 years. Besides the physical artifacts found in the area, the knowledge passed down from one generation to another through oral traditions gives us valuable insight into the history of the Lenape. With this cultural and archeological knowledge, we can get a clearer picture of the region’s story through time.

Preserving these archeological sites is important because we cannot make new ones. If you find an artifact on your visit, leave it alone and tell a Ranger. Give them a location and photos if possible. Remember, taking artifacts from the park is against the law! Respect the area’s cultural heritage by leaving things as they are.