October 4, 2005 - Press Release

Inadvertent Discovery of Human Remains

Location: McGowan, an historic community near Chinook, in Pacific County, Washington State and approximately 2 miles west of the Astoria-Megler Bridge.

The Chinook Indian Nation and the Washington State Historical Society report that following the inadvertent discovery of human remains near McGowan, Washington on the morning of September 27, 2005, the following steps have been taken. WSDOT put the general contractor, Ostrander Rock and Construction, in a “stand down mode”. A large tent was immediately ordered and placed over the site area and security fencing was erected around the tent. Erosion control measures including extensive placement of silt fence were also implemented to avoid impact to the site and general construction area. The general contractor mobilized the remaining construction equipment off the site. An RV was also brought in to provide accommodations.

Chinook Tribal Chairman Gary Johnson stated, “Our main goal continues to be caring for our ancestors in a careful and deliberate manner.” A state contracted archeologist has confirmed the origin of the human remains as Chinook. The remains of six Chinookan ancestors were identified and are being returned to their original location according to tribal custom and protocol. Chairman Johnson also stated, “We were fortunate to erect the tent so quickly and completely avoid the impact of the heavy rains of the past week”.

An additional tent was set up to assist in the recovery. Tribal members and archeologists have begun to screen previously excavated material. Johnson also stated, “We put together a small team of Chinook to direct and lead the screening and recovery process. Several Chinook have been onsite nearly 24 hours a day as monitors and they are leading the recovery process in accordance with Chinookan customs and protocols”.

Dave Nicandri, Director of the Washington State Historical Society commented, “We have been assisting the Chinook in whatever manner we can. We will provide the space and time necessary for the archeological work at hand”. Nicandri also commented, “A consultation meeting with all appropriate agencies and the Chinook has occurred and I expect further consultation to continue as necessary”.

Overnight security was doubled due to the size of the construction area and security personnel constantly patrol the ½-mile long area 24 hours a day. The public is reminded that the construction area and site are off limits to visitors.

The highway re-alignment is adjacent to Station Camp, a new unit of the Lewis and Clark National Park. Station Camp is at the location of the Chinook village known as the Middle Village. Station Camp is where the Lewis and Clark Expedition documented their arrival at the Pacific Ocean. The Expedition camped there for 10 days before reaching a decision to cross and examine the Columbia River and (eventually) establish Fort Clatsop.