ST. PETERSURG, Fla. — The State Archaeologist confirms human bone was uncovered when a St. Petersburg homeowner began removing an Indian mound in June to build a driveway and plans have since been revised not to disturb the site further.

What You Need To Know

  • State Archaeologist confirms human bone was uncovered 

  • Plans have since been revised not to disturb the site further

  • The neighborhood was built on a village complex developed by Indigenous peoples beginning nearly 2,000 years ago

  • An American Indian Movement member credits Spectrum News coverage for bringing attention to the matter

“Human bone was discovered at the property within a known archaeological site,” wrote Natalie Meiner, Florida Department of State spokesperson. “The State Archaeologist confirmed that the bone is archaeological, which is 75 years or more deceased, and not forensic.”

The site is located in the Bayshore Homes neighborhood, which was built on a village complex developed by Indigenous peoples beginning nearly 2,000 years ago, according to archaeologist records.

The Indian mound stretches across the front yards of four homes. Karen Saron lives in one of those homes and said she would never consider altering her Indian mound.

“We would never touch it. I love my Indian mound,” she said. “I think it makes this area unique.”

Saron was upset when she saw her new neighbor had a retaining wall torn down and partially uncovered some of the mound. It exposed layers of shell from the seafood the Native Americans ate along with the human bone.

The homeowner stated all ground disturbing activity stopped once the remains were discovered. He also recognizes the importance of preserving and respecting the site, plans to rebuild the retaining wall and will return the original soil that was excavated.

Saron said she’s happy her neighbor has reversed course and the human remains will stay in the mound.

“I think that’s where it belongs,” she said. “I think it was left there for 2,000 years or a 1,000 years or however long and I think that’s its resting place.”

Robert Rosa with the American Indian Movement said he began investigating the Indian mound disturbance after he read a Spectrum News article about the incident. Rosa said he’s also happy the site will remain intact and believes the news coverage played a role.

“It was your article that caught our attention. This is a well-known site,” he said. “I am happy the owner has changed his mind.”

Rosa said he inquired with the City of St. Peterburg and the State Archaeologist Kathryn Miyar about the site and wants to see the law strengthened when it comes to disturbing Indian mounds.

“They dig us up constantly and we need these laws changed,” he said. “Not to favor builders or developers, to favor the ingenious people who’ve been here for thousands of years.”

The homeowner said certified archaeologist Jeff Moates will oversee all of the work done on the Indian mound, which is required through the approved certificate to dig from the city.