Mary Allen
Introduction: What is Big Bone Cave?
Big Bone Cave is a limestone cave located in Van Buren County, Tennessee, USA. It is known for its large size, intricate passageways, and historical significance. The cave has been the site of numerous archaeological finds, including the remains of prehistoric animals and evidence of human habitation.
Early history of the cave
The earliest known history of Big Bone Cave dates back to the Paleo-Indian period, approximately 12,000 years ago. Native American tribes, including the Cherokee, used the cave for various purposes, such as shelter, storage, and spiritual rituals. The cave was also a source of saltpeter, a key ingredient in gunpowder, during the American Civil War.
Native American use of the cave
Native American artifacts, such as arrowheads and pottery, have been found in Big Bone Cave, indicating that the cave was used for thousands of years by indigenous peoples. The Cherokee believed that the cave was inhabited by a powerful spirit, and they left offerings in the cave as a way of showing respect.
Early European exploration of the cave
The first documented European exploration of Big Bone Cave was in 1811, when a group of pioneers led by Aaron Higgenbotham stumbled upon the cave while hunting. They named it "Big Bone Cave" due to the large number of animal bones they found inside.
The discovery of the bones
In the 1820s, a local landowner named George Washington Henshaw discovered a large collection of bones while exploring the cave. The bones were later identified as belonging to prehistoric animals, including mastodons, giant ground sloths, and saber-toothed cats.
The role of Dr. Gideon Lincecum
Dr. Gideon Lincecum, a prominent naturalist and physician, was one of the first scientists to study the bones found in Big Bone Cave. In the 1830s, he visited the cave and collected numerous specimens, which he sent to the Smithsonian Institution for study.
The first scientific exploration of the cave
In the 1850s, a team of scientists from the Smithsonian Institution conducted the first scientific exploration of Big Bone Cave. They mapped the cave’s passages and collected more bones for study.
The involvement of the Smithsonian Institution
The Smithsonian Institution played a significant role in the study of Big Bone Cave. The institution sent several expeditions to the cave over the years, and many of the bones collected from the cave are now housed in the Smithsonian’s National Museum of Natural History.
The controversy over the bones’ origins
There has been controversy over the origins of the bones found in Big Bone Cave. Some scientists believe that the bones were deposited in the cave by natural processes, such as floods, while others argue that they were placed there by humans.
Modern scientific study of the cave
In recent years, Big Bone Cave has been the subject of modern scientific study. Researchers have used advanced techniques, such as DNA analysis, to learn more about the animals that once lived in the cave.
Conclusion: Who really discovered Big Bone Cave?
While George Washington Henshaw is often credited with discovering Big Bone Cave, it is clear that the cave was known to Native Americans long before European settlers arrived in the area. Furthermore, the bones found in the cave were likely known to the Cherokee and other tribes, who may have used them for ceremonial purposes.
Future research and preservation efforts
Big Bone Cave continues to be an important site for scientific research and exploration. Efforts are underway to preserve the cave and its unique history for future generations to enjoy. As new technologies emerge, we can expect to learn even more about the fascinating world of Big Bone Cave.