Prehistoric artifacts of Miami’s earliest inhabitants – the Tequesta – have been discovered at a future Brickell high-rise site.
The ancient remains were found at 444 Brickell, at the demolition site of what used to be a parking garage for a U.S. Custom House built in 1972. Archaeologists have identified bone artifacts, including points, pins, and drilled shark teeth. Pumice, lithic weight, and pottery sherds were also uncovered.
The developer, Related Group, is planning to construct three towers that include 1,400 residential units and office, hotel, and retail space.
Because the entire mouth of the Miami River is within an archeological zone, Related Group has and will continue to fully comply with all existing government regulations for developing within the area, a spokesman confirmed to NBC Miami.
Digging up Miami’s History
This archeological discovery isn’t a first for Brickell.
The Miami Circle, located at 401 Brickell, is believed to be the location of a structure built by the Tequesta.
Dr. Paul George, a Miami historian, explained that important excavations have been done along the Miami River because it’s a source of water that allowed the Tequesta people to fish and get from one place to the next.
According to NBC Miami, the new findings could help contribute to the knowledge of their settlement. If confirmed, the land would be eligible for a listing in the National Register of Historic Places.
No one knows what the future has in store for Related Group and the development of 444 Brickell. Still, the new archeological finds will help us better understand Miami’s past and its earliest people.
