PORT ANGELES — Lower Elwha Klallam tribal members and archaeologists are trying to determine the origins — and possible purpose — of 15 human skulls found in one pit at the graving yard site.
“We are going to meet with our spiritual advisers and talk about what our perceptions are and learn what they think this find could be,” Lower Elwha Klallam Tribal Chairwoman Frances G. Charles said Wednesday night.
“We are also meeting with the archaeologists to discuss their ideas.”
The discovery was made last week by archaeologists and tribal members working to complete an archaeological excavation on the state Department of Transportation’s waterfront property.
Charles said Tuesday that 14 skulls had been uncovered at the site, and another skull found within the pit.
The skulls had been placed very carefully in the pit and were located within the original beach line near a longhouse structure, Charles said.
“All I can say is that this is related to ancient beliefs,” she said.
“We should know more about the discovery later this week or early next week.”