Introduction to the Underwater Discovery

Everybody is familiar with the Stonehenge monument in England, but many people aren’t aware that there are several Stonehenge lookalikes across the globe. One such fascinating discovery lies beneath the waters of Lake Michigan, in Grand Traverse Bay. What did an archaeology professor find in these waters that evokes images of Stonehenge?

Grand Traverse Bay: A Tourist Hotspot

Nestled within the small town of Traverse City, Grand Traverse Bay is a body of water within Lake Michigan. Known as one of the most scenic destinations in the United States, it attracts numerous visitors, especially in the summer. The bay is popular for activities like boating, hiking, biking, fishing, and swimming. In fall, the area is a favorite for ‘color tours’ to see the leaves change, while winter offers opportunities for sledding, tobogganing, and snowmobiling.

The Astonishing Discovery by Dr. Mark Holley

Grand Traverse Bay is no stranger to old shipwrecks, but a discovery made by Dr. Mark Holley, an underwater archaeologist from Northwest Michigan University, stands out. Located 40 feet below the surface of Lake Michigan, a set of pillar-shaped structures was found, bearing a striking resemblance to England’s famous Stonehenge. Holley knew further research was needed to understand this non-shipwreck discovery.

The Underwater Stonehenge: Older Than England’s

Dr. Holley’s research revealed that Michigan’s underwater Stonehenge predates the one in England by thousands of years. Dating back over 9,000 years to the Ice Ages, the monuments vary in size, from those resembling basketballs to structures as large as compact cars. Spanning over a mile in length, the exact location of this site remains undisclosed to preserve its integrity.

A Piece of Tribal History

Dr. Holley has collaborated with the Grand Traverse Band of Ottawa and Chippewa tribes to protect this significant archaeological find. This isn’t the first unique discovery in the area; large rocks with imprints of the extinct mastodon have also been found. While the underwater Stonehenge was discovered in 2007, details about further research remain limited.

Conclusion: Visit Traverse City

While it’s not feasible to visit this underwater Stonehenge due to its undisclosed location and the dangers of deep-sea diving, a trip to Traverse City and the surrounding Grand Traverse Bay is highly recommended. This area offers a perfect blend of natural beauty and historical intrigue, making it a must-see on any Michigan road trip itinerary.