Student archaeologists at the University of North Florida have possibly uncovered something big — both in size and in historical importance.
UNF Archeology Lab Director Keith Ashley says students found evidence of a large indigenous building during a dig at Big Talbot Island State Park. It could be the first community building, called a council house, discovered in North Florida that was connected to the Timucua Native Americans, whose presence here dates to around 3000 B.C. The find is part of what’s thought to be the lost indigenous village of Sarabay from 450 years ago. In three summers of excavation at the site, students have found 10,000 pieces of indigenous pottery, among other artifacts. (WJCT News 89.9’s First Coast Connect with Melissa Ross)