Ann Arbor Times

Ken McQuarrie, an Alpena native, found his career path altered after attending a local career fair where he encountered an underwater remotely operated vehicle (ROV). David Cummins, an instructor at Alpena Community College (ACC), introduced him to the Marine Technology Pathways program. This led McQuarrie to work with University of Michigan archaeologist John O'Shea on research projects in Lake Huron.

O'Shea's team has identified 72 potential ancient caribou hunting sites along the Alpena-Amberley Ridge. Of these, twelve have been confirmed as such, offering insights into human activity from 8,000 to 11,000 years ago. "I volunteered to work with him," McQuarrie said. "I didn’t ever need my name involved in any research or anything like that. I just wanted to be part of it."

The research utilizes ROVs and community volunteers to explore the lake bed for artifacts. "I remember getting that first paycheck with the University of Michigan all over it," McQuarrie recalled. The project also involves local students through educational programs and virtual reality simulations designed by O'Shea and Bob Reynolds from Wayne State University.

The findings challenge traditional views of Michigan's history by revealing intact archaeological sites beneath Lake Huron. O'Shea noted that "unlike on land...the underwater stuff is right where it was left." He explained how hunters historically used natural formations like the ridge for caribou hunting.

McQuarrie now resides near Lansing but remains engaged with the project and its impact on Alpena's community identity. He appreciates how O'Shea's work highlights northeast Michigan's unique historical significance compared to more frequented areas of the state.

###