Ancient bison kill site uncovered in Montana

[August 09, 2010]  BROWNING, Mont. (AP) -- Archaeologists working on the Blackfeet Indian reservation in northwestern Montana say they have uncovered a vast former hunting complex where bison were stampeded over a cliff at least 1,000 years ago.

Researchers say the 9-mile-long area contains a well-preserved "drive line" system used to funnel bison to their deaths, along with bison bones and the remnants of campsites with hundreds of tepee rings.

The site is on a remote plateau overlooking the Two Medicine River. Researchers say it could become one of the largest and most significant Blackfeet heritage sites in the region.

Plains Indians harvested bison hundreds of years ago by stampeding them over cliffs. John Murray, the Blackfeet Tribe's historic preservation officer, says research at the new site will help tribal members better understand their history.

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Information from: Great Falls Tribune, http://www.greatfallstribune.com/

[Associated Press]

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