DETROIT LAKES, Minn. (KFGO) – More than three years ago, a Frazee area man discovered bones of a pair of bison that died centuries ago in a peat bog on his property. At the time, the peat bog dried up, and the owner dug up the remains.
The state archeologist’s office had the remains dated and verified that they were several hundred years old. The man later donated the remains to the Becker County Historical Society and Museum in Detroit Lakes, where it is now a major exhibit.
The organization’s executive director, Becky Mitchell, says this does not only include bones but also rare collective tissue and even some teeth from the ancient bison’s jawbone. She says that among the most unique parts is the large amount of intact cartilage, which is considered rare and has remarkable preservation qualities in the peat bog.
Mitchell says they’re not sure about what type of bison they are, but based on their research, they have been told that they are likely “Woodland Bison,” which is smaller than what would be seen on the plains of North Dakota.
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