 EPOD - a service of USRA

The Earth Science Picture of the Day (EPOD) highlights the diverse processes
and phenomena which shape our planet and our lives. EPOD will collect and
archive photos, imagery, graphics, and artwork with short explanatory
captions and links exemplifying features within the Earth system. The
community is invited to contribute digital imagery, short captions and
relevant links.


 Archive - Prayer Rock Petroglyphs

   February 06, 2021

    Prayer Rock Petroglyphs

   Every weekend we present a notable item from our archives. This EPOD
   was originally published February 6, 2004.

   Provided by:  Mike Barondeau
   Summary author:  Mike Barondeau

   Many years ago, a glacial boulder was discovered, southeast of
   Mobridge, South Dakota, which weighs about five tons and has life-sized
   human hands etched on it. A well-beaten trail led to the site.
   Archeologists think Native Americans may have placed their hands in the
   imprints while praying. The rock was moved to the public library
   grounds in Ipswich, South Dakota, care being taken to orient the stone
   precisely as it originally lay. The sign accompanying the rock reads
   "Medicine or Prayer Rock." Part of the inscription mentions that this
   rock was a symbol of great power and venerated by the Indians who
   believed it the work of the Wakan or Great Spirit. The public library
   in Ipswich is located on Main Street, about four blocks south of U.S.
   Highway 12, also known as the Yellowstone Trail.


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    More...

History Links

     *  Paleoclimatology Data
     *  USGS: Age of the Earth
     *  What is Geologic Time?
     *  GSA Geologic Time Scale
     *  Earth Facts
     *  Earth History Courses

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