Researchers in Oregon and Nevada have determined that artifacts found inside Cougar Mountain Cave in Central Oregon are the oldest known examples of sewn hide. The items were preserved inside dry caves for more than 12,000 years and provide rare examples of what researchers say is likely early clothing dating back to the late Ice Age.
The collection of 55 items includes bone sewing needles, braided cord made from plant fibers, and sharpened projectile points. But the most notable among them are the two pieces of animal skin stitched together with cord that are older than anything else like them found in the world.
The sewn hides were interpreted to be “the margin of a piece of tight-fitted clothing, moccasin, bag or container, or part of a portable shelter,” according to the researchers’ analysis, published Feb. 4 in the journal Science Advances…