The Lake Winnipesaukee Mystery Stone

In 1872, workers digging near Lake Winnipesaukee in New Hampshire discovered an egg-shaped stone carved with mysterious symbols. Despite over 150 years of study, no one has determined who made it or what it means.

The Discovery

Laborers digging a fence post hole near the lake uncovered the object in 1872. It was purchased by Seneca Ladd, a local businessman. Upon his death, his daughter donated it to the New Hampshire Historical Society.

The Object

The stone is about four inches long, egg-shaped, and carved from a type of quartzite. It bears numerous carved symbols including a face, a tepee, ears of corn, a circle, and various geometric patterns. The carvings are sophisticated.

The Anomalies

Two holes have been drilled through the stone, one at each end. The holes are remarkably straight and smooth, suggesting they were made with metal tools. This is inconsistent with pre-colonial Native American technology.

The Theories

Some propose the stone is a Native American artifact, possibly a talisman or peace treaty marker. Others suggest it was made by Vikings, ancient Phoenicians, or even a lost civilization. Skeptics have proposed it is a nineteenth-century hoax.

The Mystery

No similar objects have been found. The symbols do not match any known alphabet or pictographic system. The drilling technique remains unexplained. The stone resists all attempts at interpretation.

Assessment

The Lake Winnipesaukee Mystery Stone represents a genuine archaeological anomaly. Whether ancient artifact or elaborate hoax, it has defied explanation for over 150 years and remains one of New England’s strangest objects.