Shelf 1: These items were found at Dresden. Will Hanson had a gravel pit and uncovered these things from 5,000 to 10,000 years ago. The pottery, paint stones, carved shells and stag horns were found 11 feet down.
Shelf 2: Flint knives are similar to those of the “Old Stone Age” (Paleolithic). The 19 flint knives were made by one worker and pointed at both ends, which is rare. They were found all together by Clyde Carkhuff on his farm in Goose Lake Township, near Winterbottom Road and Mazon Creek.
Shelf 3: Assorted archaic indigenous blades and points. Facsimile of Native American hunting arrow with authentic stone arrowhead.
Shelf 4: Drills, toggle points, and scrappers were all used as common, everyday tools.
Shelf 5: A few French trade items from 1790-1800 were found in the Channahon area like the trade ax, silver alloy vessel, and mirror. Copper bracelets and beads were Native American made – out of native copper like the slab on display which was pushed here by the Wisconsin Glacier.
Shelf 6: Pipes were treasured items. They could be detached from their wooden stem and kept in a pouch for safety. The monitor pipe was found east of Seneca. Banner stones were carried on a staff decorated with feathers during ceremonial dances. The pointed ceremonial pick was found by John Nelson while he was plowing on the Eugene Cryder farm on Route 6, east of Walmart. Gorgets were good luck charms. The bar amulet was worn across the chest as an ornament.
Shelf 7: Axes and celts were used as hoes and for cutting trees and firewood. Hammer stones were used for cracking nuts and pounding deer meat. The nutting or cup stone was like a mortar and pestle for crushing and grinding.