A Few Kentucky Rockshelter Treasures

by Steven R. Cooper, Editor Central States archaeological Society

Hugh Dossett (right) and Dennis Vesper (left) exploring the entrance to the Mud River Rock Shelter in Logan County, Kentucky, in the early 1960s.

There was a time when those with an interest, left no stone unturned in the pursuit of Indian artifacts. In Kentucky, this meant not only field and creek hunting, but also caves and rock shelters. Caves were usually occupied in prehistoric times at their entrances, with the “trash” of those who had lived there buried in the dust of centuries. These dry caves (signifying the absence of running water) were able to preserve many perishable objects, and have been a significant source of these rarest of artifacts. Cane weaving, clothing, baskets and other objects made from plants are among the things found. Sometimes objects were deposited in the cracks and crevices of the cave walls for unknown reasons. Objects were buried on purpose. Some ended up in trash piles at the sides or backs of the caves. As time passed, these became buried, and in a few cases, such as Glover’s Cave, the floor literally held the debris of thousands of years of occupation.

Today, it is illegal to disturb a cave environment in Kentucky in any manner, which includes hunting for artifacts. While this article shows some interesting finds from many years ago, the author does not suggest or condone this activity today.

A small comb made from cane. This was found in a burned basket within Watts Cave in Christian County around 1900. Collection of Charles S. Wagers, Fairfield, Ohio.

V ase pipes are not perishable or unusual. Many have been found made from limestone but due to the nature of the stone, they rapidly deteriorate and the surface defoliates.However, this one retains its original luster and polish. It was found in a rock shelter in Pulaski County, Kentucky in the 1960s. Collection of Charles and Mary Barker.

The above flax woven plant fiber moccasin was part of a cache of 22 found by Hugh Dossett during the week of March 16th, 1964. These were discovered in the Mud River Rock Shelter in Logan County, Kentucky. Collection of Charles S. Wagers, Fairfield, Ohio.

More perishable items found by Hugh Dossett in 1964 in the Mud River Rock Shelter in Logan County, Kentucky. Rope, weavings, leaather, fabric, corn, seeds and nuts are among the items shown. Collection of Charles S. Wagers, Fairfield, Ohio.

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