An official website of the State of Georgia.
The Georgia Department of Natural Resources (DNR), State Parks and Historic Sites Division, announces the recent recovery of a Native American artifact that was taken from Kolomoki Mounds State Park more than 50 years ago.
Earlier this month, an individual anonymously returned a pottery vessel believed to be among approximately 120 artifacts stolen from the site in 1974. The item was delivered to the park’s visitor center without any identification.
This recovery marks a significant and hopeful development in an ongoing investigation. The Georgia DNR is actively working with law enforcement and cultural resource partners to gather additional information related to the original theft of these artifacts and to pursue the recovery of remaining items.
“We are encouraged by the return of this historically significant cultural artifact and hope it inspires others who may have items from Kolomoki to come forward,” said Angie Johnson, Director of the State Parks and Historic Sites Division. “These artifacts are an irreplaceable part of Georgia’s history and belong to the people and cultures connected to this site.”
Kolomoki Mounds is one of the oldest and largest Woodland Period Native American sites in the southeastern United States, holding deep cultural and historical significance. The Division is committed to ensuring that all recovered artifacts are handled with the utmost care and respect.
“I am honored to see this important piece of history returned to its home during my career as Manager” said Lauren Bryant, Park Manager for Kolomoki Mounds State Park. “This monumental moment is especially meaningful not only for me, but for the entire community whose dedication and hard work have supported the preservation of this park. The return of this missing pottery vessel restores a part of our shared heritage and ensures it can once again be appreciated in its rightful place.”
The Department also looks forward to consulting and working collaboratively with federally recognized Tribal partners regarding this artifact and any future recoveries.
Due to the active nature of the investigation, no additional details are being released at this time.
Anyone with information about the missing artifacts, or who may wish to return items, is encouraged to contact the Georgia Department of Natural Resources.
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MEDIA CONTACT:
Ellen Graham, Chief of Resource Management, Georgia State Parks and Historic Sites – Ellen.Graham@dnr.ga.gov
Austin Suhr, Marketing and Communications Manager, Georgia State Parks and Historic Sites – Austin.Suhr@dnr.ga.gov
