Ancient hearth rocks??

[Bobby_Dazzler_96]

Recently found these large rocks in NW Florida. So far, I've uncovered a couple dozen but I know there are lots more. They are not that deep, in fact most that I've found have been partly exposed on the ground. Some are clustered, some seem almost linear, and yet they are sporadic over at least a half acre that encompasses the highest point on the property (swamp nearby). No previous homestead to my knowledge, but based on old ariels it was logged for planted pines a long time ago. I have found several Native American artifacts on the property, but nothing yet in this immediate area. Could these be part of an ancient hearth?? I have no other ideas. Please help! Thanks.

 

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[CreekSide]

No idea but they could of been put there when they harvested the pines

 

[newnan man]

Why do you think they are hearth stones? No fire charring on them or anything that looks like they were exposed to fire. Post the several artifacts you have found there, those are just rocks.

 

[antmike915]

Show those Florida artifacts 👍

 

[releventchair]

As mentioned , no staining.

Looks like dried clay.
If so , no good for a fire . As no moisture inside is desired foe heating. Steam needs a place to go. Sometimes rapidly.

If you don't find black staining from a fire , clean rocks or sediment broken up won't substitute.

If in a shelters bottoms shape when found they may have been used for weights. Piled as in the picture , not so much.

 

[unclemac]

hearth stones often have a pink hue where I am from...and cracks

 

[Older The Better]

Just a couple other things to consider, some groups would pile stones over their dead to protect the body, some would use rock to funnel game while hunting