Lake Mendota discovery uncovers ancient dugout canoes

Researchers with the Wisconsin Historical Society have identified 16 ancient dugout canoes in Lake Mendota, with carbon dating indicating ages ranging roughly from 5,200 to 700 years ago.

Researchers from the Wisconsin Historical Society have documented 16 ancient dugout canoes on the bottom of Lake Mendota. Initial finds began in 2021, with additional discoveries in 2022 and six more located in spring 2025. Carbon dating provides a probable age range for the group from about 5,200 years ago to about 700 years ago. The research team and tribal partners say the remains offer new evidence about long-term watercraft use and travel on these lands. Key findings: - Sixteen dugout canoes were identified in Lake Mendota by the Wisconsin Historical Society researchers. - Early discoveries include a canoe first reported in 2021 (initially thought to be about 1,200 years old) and another noted in 2022; carbon dating later placed the oldest canoe at roughly 5,200 years and the newest at about 700 years. - The oldest canoe is likely from around 3000 BCE, making it the oldest recorded dugout canoe in the Great Lakes region and the third oldest in eastern North America. - Material analysis shows about half the canoes were made from red or white oak; researchers note oak can develop tyloses (cell outgrowths) that can increase water resistance and reduce rot, and they are investigating whether builders intentionally selected or treated trees for these properties. - Some canoes contained net sinkers, which researchers report as evidence they were used to access lake resources such as fish. - The canoes were found in two distinct groupings, and researchers describe this pattern as consistent with strategic placement, shared community storage, and an interconnected travel network, a point highlighted by tribal historic preservation officers. Summary: The discovery suggests prolonged and sophisticated use of watercraft and organized travel or resource access in the Lake Mendota area over several millennia. Undetermined at this time.