The Discovery of the Miami Circle

The year was 1998, and Miami was in the throes of its relentless march towards modernization. Amidst the clamor of construction and development, a routine archaeological investigation was underway at the site of the Brickell Point Apartments, a cluster of low-rise buildings from the 1950s slated for demolition to make way for towering condominiums. It was during these preliminary surveys that surveyor Ted Riggs, an amateur archaeologist with a keen eye for the past, stumbled upon something extraordinary.

While examining the site, Riggs noticed an arc-like section etched into the limestone bedrock, buried beneath three feet of earth. His intuition sparked, he suspected that this arc was part of a larger circle. As excavations progressed under the direction of archaeologist Robert Carr, Riggs's hunch proved to be remarkably accurate. A perfectly formed circle, measuring 38 feet in diameter, began to emerge from the earth.

This was no ordinary circle. It was composed of an astonishing 600 postholes and basins meticulously carved into the limestone bedrock. The precision and complexity of the structure were immediately apparent, captivating the archaeologists and sparking a wave of excitement and speculation. The discovery of the Miami Circle sent ripples through both the archaeological community and the public, instantly transforming a mundane construction site into a treasure trove of ancient history.

The location of the Miami Circle further amplified its significance. Situated on a 2.2-acre parcel at Brickell Point, where the Miami River meets Biscayne Bay, the site held a strategic position at the confluence of vital waterways. This location suggested a deep connection to the water and potentially a central role in the lives of the people who inhabited this area millennia ago.

Deciphering the Enigma: Theories Surrounding the Miami Circle

The discovery of the Miami Circle ignited a flurry of theories attempting to explain its purpose and origins. Dating back approximately 2,000 years, predating European contact, the circle presented a unique archaeological puzzle. While definitive answers remain elusive, several compelling theories have emerged, each offering a different perspective on the circle's function and the culture that created it.

1. Tequesta Council House or Ceremonial Structure:

The most widely accepted theory posits that the Miami Circle was the foundation of a large, prehistoric structure built by the Tequesta Indians, the indigenous people who inhabited the region for centuries. Archaeological evidence supports this theory, suggesting the structure served as a "Council House" or another type of ceremonial building.

Several factors lend credence to this interpretation:

• Cardinal Point Alignment: The Miami Circle exhibits intentional alignment with cardinal points (North, South, East, and West). This deliberate orientation suggests a structured design with potential astronomical or ceremonial significance. Notably, an eye-shaped hole, unique among the hundreds of holes at the site, was found at the circle's eastern point, further hinting at symbolic or astronomical considerations.
• Animal Offerings: Within the circle's interior, archaeologists unearthed potential animal offerings, including a complete sea turtle carapace and the articulated remains of a shark exceeding six feet in length. These findings suggest ritualistic practices associated with the structure.
• Artifact Assemblage: The artifacts recovered from the postholes and surrounding midden (a refuse heap) align with known Tequesta artifacts. These include shell tools, shark teeth tools, and bone tools characteristic of the Tequesta culture.

2. Astronomical Observatory:

A more controversial, minority theory proposes that the Miami Circle functioned as an ancient astronomical observatory, possibly constructed by the Maya or another pre-Columbian civilization. This theory, championed by surveyor Ted Riggs and others, draws parallels to Stonehenge and other archaeo-astronomical sites.

Proponents of this theory point to:

• Geometric Basins: The circle's design incorporates 30 rectangular "basins" arranged in a ring. Riggs and others suggest these basins were foundation slots for 30 upright stones, forming a structure akin to Stonehenge. They propose this stone circle served as an astronomical calendar, used to track the sun's movements and calculate the passage of time.
• Maya Connection: Some proponents speculate that the Maya, known for their advanced astronomical knowledge, may have traveled to South Florida and constructed the Miami Circle for ritualistic or religious purposes related to celestial observation.

However, this theory faces significant challenges:

• Lack of Mayan Artifacts: Archaeological excavations have yielded no artifacts of Central American origin at the Miami Circle site, undermining the direct Mayan connection.
• Limestone Postholes: The postholes are carved into limestone bedrock, a construction technique not typically associated with known pre-Columbian structures in Florida, where postholes are usually round or oval.
• Rectangular Postholes: The rectangular shape of the larger postholes is also atypical for known posthole structures from this period, which are generally round or oval.

3. Septic Tank Drainage System:

A less credible and largely dismissed theory suggested that the Miami Circle was not ancient at all but rather a modern creation, specifically part of a septic tank drainage system installed in the 1950s when the Brickell Point Apartments were built. This theory was quickly debunked by archaeological evidence and geological analysis, which confirmed the circle's antiquity. The presence of a calcite "duricrust" on the cut faces of the postholes, as noted by geologists from the Florida Geological Survey, provided further evidence against a recent origin.

Unearthing the Evidence: Archaeological Findings at the Miami Circle

Extensive archaeological excavations at the Miami Circle site have yielded a wealth of artifacts, providing invaluable insights into the lives and culture of the people who inhabited this area thousands of years ago. These findings offer crucial clues to understanding the circle's purpose and the broader context of pre-Columbian life in South Florida.

1. Artifacts and Tools:

• Bone and Tooth Tools: Over 500 bone and tooth artifacts have been recovered, primarily tools made from deer foot bones, shark teeth, and bones from other animal species. These tools are indicative of everyday activities such as weaving, leather processing, woodworking, and bone carving. A rare decorated bone pendant engraved with concentric circles was also found.
• Shell Tools: Shell tools, mainly crafted from queen or pink conch shells, are abundant at the site. Most shell tools were likely used for woodworking, reflecting the importance of this craft in the community. Other shells used include Florida horse conch, lucine clams, helmet shell, and West Indian chank shell.
• Stone Tools: Nearly 1500 pieces of chipped stone debitage (waste flakes from toolmaking) and some finished stone tools were unearthed. This is notable as chert, the stone used for these tools, is not locally available in South Florida. Archaeological analysis indicates the chert originated from central Florida and the Tampa Bay area, approximately 320 km away, suggesting trade or travel networks. The stone tool assemblage includes flakes, cores, hammerstone fragments, bifaces (possibly arrowheads or knives), unifaces, and microliths.
• Stone Celts (Axes): Two basalt stone celts or axes were discovered, one found in place within a posthole. Spectrographic analysis suggests the basalt originated from the Macon, Georgia area, further highlighting long-distance connections. Intriguingly, neither celt showed signs of use, and their purpose remains unclear.
• Ceramics: Ceramic analysis revealed the presence of various pottery types, including St. Johns Check Stamped and Glades Tooled pottery. These types indicate occupation during different periods, suggesting the site was utilized over an extended timeframe.
• Galena Artifacts: Two galena artifacts were found. Galena, a lead sulfide mineral, is not native to Florida, with major deposits in Missouri, the upper Mississippi Valley, Illinois, and Kentucky. Their presence at the Miami Circle suggests long-distance trade or exchange networks reaching far beyond South Florida.

2. Animal Remains:

Zooarchaeological analysis of animal bones from the Miami Circle provides a glimpse into the diet and environment of the site's inhabitants.

• Marine Resources: The most prevalent animal remains are those of marine bony fish, sharks, and rays, reflecting the site's proximity to Biscayne Bay and the Miami River.
• Turtles and Snakes: Freshwater and marine turtles, as well as snakes, were also common food sources.
• Terrestrial Animals: Remains of land animals such as squirrel, rabbit, deer, dog, and Caribbean monk seal, along with birds and amphibians, were also identified, indicating exploitation of diverse habitats.
• Dolphin Skull: A bottle-nosed dolphin skull was found at the base of the circle structure, possibly representing a ceremonial offering.
• Shark Skeleton: A complete 5-foot shark skeleton, dating to around 1600 AD (later than the circle's construction), was discovered buried beneath the structure. Its interment, oriented east-west, is suggestive of ceremonial or ritualistic disposal. Perforated shark teeth, likely used in weapons and carving tools, were also found.

3. Historical Artifacts:

A small number of historical artifacts were also recovered, primarily dating to the 19th century. These include:

• Iron nails, bullet casings, and musket balls.
• Glass bottle fragments.
• Buttons.
• Historic ceramic sherds like pearlware and stoneware.
• Perforated coins and glass beads, possibly associated with Seminole Indians who traded at William Brickell's store at the site between 1870 and 1900.

These historical artifacts indicate later activity at the site, likely related to William Brickell's trading post, which was established in the area in the late 19th century.

Significance of the Miami Circle: A Window into the Past

The Miami Circle holds immense significance for several reasons, solidifying its place as a crucial archaeological site, not just in Florida, but potentially across North America.

1. Unique Prehistoric Structure:

The Miami Circle is believed to be the only known prehistoric structural footprint carved directly into bedrock in eastern North America. This unique construction technique sets it apart from other archaeological sites in the region and highlights the ingenuity and resourcefulness of its creators. The precise carving of postholes and basins into the hard limestone bedrock demonstrates a sophisticated level of planning and engineering.

2. Insights into Tequesta Culture:

The circle provides invaluable insights into the Tequesta culture, a Native American tribe that inhabited South Florida for millennia. The artifacts, animal remains, and structural design offer a tangible glimpse into their daily lives, social organization, ceremonial practices, and technological capabilities. The site underscores the Tequesta's deep connection to the marine environment and their sophisticated adaptation to the coastal ecosystem.

3. Long-Distance Networks:

The presence of non-local materials like chert from central Florida, basalt from Georgia, and galena from the Mississippi Valley region points to extensive trade or exchange networks in pre-Columbian times. These findings challenge previous assumptions about the isolation of South Florida cultures and reveal their participation in broader regional and potentially inter-regional interaction spheres.

4. Preservation and Heritage:

The discovery of the Miami Circle sparked a significant preservation effort, highlighting the importance of protecting archaeological resources in urban environments. The successful campaign to save the site from development and its subsequent designation as a National Historic Landmark underscore the growing public awareness of cultural heritage and the need to balance development with preservation.

5. Public Education and Engagement:

Today, the Miami Circle is preserved as a public park, offering an opportunity for education and engagement with the past. Interpretive signage, virtual tours, and cultural events at the site help to educate the public about the Miami Circle's history and significance, fostering a deeper appreciation for Florida's rich pre-Columbian heritage.

Controversies and Debates: Navigating the Uncharted Territory

The Miami Circle's journey from discovery to preservation has not been without its share of controversies and debates. These discussions have revolved around the site's age, origins, interpretation, and the ethical considerations of development versus preservation.

1. Age of the Circle:

Initially, radiocarbon dating of burnt wood found within the postholes indicated an age of 1,800-2,000 years. However, some scholars, notably Dr. Jerald Milanich, expressed skepticism about this dating, questioning whether the wood was truly contemporary with the circle's construction. Further evidence supporting the ancient age came from geologists who pointed to the buildup of calcite "duricrust" on the cut faces of the postholes, suggesting significant time for this geological process to occur. While radiocarbon dating remains the primary method for dating archaeological sites, the debate highlights the complexities of interpreting dating results and the need for multiple lines of evidence.

2. Origins and Cultural Affiliation:

While the prevailing theory attributes the Miami Circle to the Tequesta Indians, alternative theories, particularly the Mayan observatory hypothesis, have fueled debate about its cultural origins. The lack of Mayan artifacts at the site weakens the direct Mayan connection, but proponents of this theory continue to explore possible indirect influences or connections. The absence of definitive comparative structures in the archaeological record also contributes to the ongoing discussion about the circle's unique nature and cultural context.

3. Preservation vs. Development:

The discovery of the Miami Circle occurred amidst plans for a major high-rise development, setting the stage for a dramatic confrontation between preservation and development interests. Developer Michael Baumann, who had purchased the land for development, initially offered to relocate the circle, an idea supported by some city officials. However, public outcry and preservationist groups vehemently opposed relocation, arguing that it could damage the fragile site and diminish its archaeological context. The Dade Heritage Trust filed a lawsuit to halt construction, leading to a legal battle and intense public debate. Ultimately, public sentiment and political pressure led to the state's purchase of the site for $26.7 million to ensure its preservation. This episode underscores the challenges of balancing urban development with the protection of archaeological heritage, particularly in rapidly growing cities like Miami.

4. Display and Accessibility:

Despite its preservation as a historic site, the Miami Circle itself is not directly visible to the public. Due to its fragility and the need for its long-term protection, the circle was reburied beneath layers of limestone after excavation. While the site is open to the public as a park with interpretive signage, the actual archaeological feature remains hidden from view. This decision, while aimed at preservation, has sparked some debate about public accessibility and the visitor experience. Virtual tours and detailed interpretive materials attempt to bridge this gap, offering visitors a way to understand and appreciate the hidden archaeological treasure beneath their feet.

Conclusion: The Enduring Mystery of the Miami Circle

The Miami Circle remains an enduring mystery, a captivating archaeological site that continues to spark curiosity and debate. While the prevailing theory points to its origin as a Tequesta Council House or ceremonial structure, the precise purpose and cultural nuances of this unique site remain open to interpretation. The archaeological evidence unearthed at the circle provides invaluable insights into the lives, technologies, and connections of the pre-Columbian inhabitants of South Florida, particularly the Tequesta Indians.

The Miami Circle's significance extends beyond its archaeological value. It stands as a symbol of the importance of preserving cultural heritage in the face of urban development, a testament to the power of community action in safeguarding the past. As a public park and National Historic Landmark, the Miami Circle serves as an educational resource, inviting visitors to contemplate the long and rich history of Miami, a history that stretches back millennia before the city's modern skyscrapers graced the skyline.

While many questions surrounding the Miami Circle remain unanswered, its discovery has irrevocably altered our understanding of Miami's past and the complex tapestry of human history in the Americas. The mystery of the Miami Circle, far from being solved, continues to beckon, inviting further research, interpretation, and appreciation for this remarkable window into a distant and enigmatic past.