Archaeologists Uncover Notched Logs That May Be the Oldest Known Wooden Structure

[Judi Lynn]

1. World's Oldest Known Wooden Structure Found in Zambia

September 22, 2023
Rebecca McPhee
Africa | Archaeology



On the banks of the Kalambo River in Zambia, archaeologists have made a discovery that may change our understanding of ancient life in Africa. Two interlocking logs that date back 476,000 years show clear signs of woodworking. It is the oldest known wooden structure in the world.

The logs, which came from a large-fruited bushwillow tree, have notches carved into their ends. Archaeologists found nearby tools, such as axes, that could have done this cutting and scraping.

The researchers found a number of other items at the site, including a wedge, a digging stick, and a chopping block. All date between 324,000 and 390,000 years ago. It means that woodworking pre-dates the evolution of Homo sapiens by over 100,000 years.

Made before Homo sapiens
The unknown structure was likely made by Homo heidelbergensis. The common ancestor of Homo sapiens and Neanderthals, heidelbergensis lived between 200,000 and 700,000 years ago. No human remains have ever turned up at the Kalambo Falls site, but a Homo heidelbergensis skull was found previously in Zambia.

. . .

More:
https://explorersweb.com/oldest-known-wooden-structure-zambia/