For many centuries the Native Americans who lived in what would become Patterson travelled down the Croton River to fish for shad in the Hudson, storing food and supplies  they would need on their return in a rock shelter near Muddy Brook.  Among the artifacts found there by archaeologists in 1975-76 were projectile points (some dating back 8000 years), bones from 18 species of animal including elk and mountain lion, and 650 pottery shards - pieces of clay pots that had been used for cooking and storage.

Ms. Kelley-Moberg, a longtime member of the NYS Archaeological Association, met recently with anthropologist/ archaeologist Eugene Boesch, PhD. who assessed the pottery as “the richest collection of native ceramics in southeastern New York.”  He added that the recovery of the artifacts was “very important in demonstrating the ability of the Great Swamp and the Croton River to sustain a rich livelihood.”  After examining the ceramics, both experts agreed that the earliest pot could be dated to the Vinette II period (300BC-400AD) and the most recent to 1500AD, as determined by the style of rims, among other markers.

News of this find has travelled to Albany where it caught the attention of the State Museum.  At the end of February, the Society will transport the collection to the state capital where it will undergo further examination and assessment.  Until that time the public is welcome to view the display at the Patterson Town Hall from 9-5, Monday through Friday.