A recent study published in Quaternary Science Advances reveals that ancient Native Americans may have utilized early transport technology known as "travois" over 20,000 years ago, based on footprints and grooves found in White Sands National Park, New Mexico. These grooves are thought to result from poles used to drag goods, resembling early wheelbarrow designs. Indigenous collaborators aided in the excavation, affirming the travois theory. Experimental recreations supported the hypothesis, demonstrating how these technologies could have facilitated the transport of essential items like firewood and food.
The grooves found in White Sands National Park are likely remnants of ancient "travois" used by Native Americans to transport goods, indicating advanced transport technology.
Research indicates that the marks left in the sediment are consistent with the operation of travois, which were essential for moving goods like firewood and food.
Collaborating with Indigenous researchers, the study suggests that these tracks indicate human use of travois more than 20,000 years ago, predating the wheel.
Experiments created travois to replicate ancient usage, revealing how such technology could have effectively moved heavy objects across diverse terrains.
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