Texas Historical Commission looks into dried lakes

Dried-up bodies of water are producing some hidden historical treasures, according to the Texas Historical Commission, but so far, no such finds have been reported in West Texas.

Director of the Archeology Division for the THC Pat Mercado-Allinger said since the recent drought has taken its toll on the lakes and reservoirs in the state, items such as tools, cemeteries and even skulls are being found. While calls have come in from around West Texas about potential finds, the THC has yet to make its way to the area.

“There have been instances reported of (items) exposed,” Mercado said. “We don’t have the man power to check all of them.”

John Grant, Director of the Colorado River Municipal Water District, said about six months ago, a motor boat was discovered at the bottom of Lake Spence, but nothing else has been discovered. Citing the National Historic Preservation Act of 1966 which helps retain diverse elements of past cultures, Grant said multiple studies were done to make sure there was nothing to be disturbed before construction began on Ivie or Spence.

Ivie, before being constructed in the 1980s, was delayed several times to relocate several local family cemeteries. Spence was constructed in 1969, though there were no reported delays in its creation.

“We spent about $10 million … to make sure there were no archeological sites,” Grant said.

Fort Stockton mayor Bill Lannom said there were findings at the bottom of the Imperial Reservoir, but they were items he had expected.

“Just a motor boat and some beer bottles,” Lannom said.

Since taking effect in 1966, the Preservation Act states the United States government would “use measures, including financial and technical assistance, to foster conditions under which our modern society and our prehistoric and historic resources can exist in productive harmony and fulfill the social, economic, and other requirements of present and future generations.”

Mercado said though the laws have helped preserve several historical sites, there are still several that were overlooked.

“Many of the protections (of the law) now in place just weren’t laws back (before 1966),” she said.

Though there have been no significant finds in the Permian Basin, Mercado said individuals are not encouraged to go out to dried bodies of water in search of hidden artifacts. Saying there could be possible legal action for individuals who venture into an area controlled by a water municipality, Mercado said those who are concerned about possible historical findings should contact the appropriate authorities to work with the THC.

“It’s when people start picking things up and destroy them when it becomes an issue,” Mercado said.

@OAgovernment