“We reached this decision after careful consideration and consultation with the cultural heritage management firm that conducted non-invasive ground penetrating radar testing of the site and recently issued a summary report of their findings,” the city said in a prepared statement. “We have shared this report as well as our decision with Native American stakeholders in this community and beyond, with whom we've consulted throughout this process.”
RELATED: NFL to build new field at Dayton park where first game was played
The city said the results of the survey “identified the presence of a unique and sizable anomaly in the soil at depth that suggests it predates the park and is potentially prehistoric.”
RELATED: Triangle Park: The birthplace of the NFL in photos
Dayton was home to the NFL’s first game between the Dayton Triangles and Columbus Panhandles in October 1920.
The NFL Foundation announced in March plans to build a new turf field at the park to recognize the city’s contribution to football.
RELATED: Triangle Park: The birthplace of the NFL in photos
The city put a hold on the groundbreaking of the new field after News Center 7 and the Dayton Daily News reporting uncovered the potential the planned site could be an American Indian burial ground.
The city and the NFL are continuing to collaborate and consider alternative ways to recognize and celebrate Dayton’s role as part of the football league’s 100th season, which will include an NFL donation of a new turf field at another location, the city said.
The National Football League is celebrating the nearly 100-year history of the sport and hosted NFL Draft events in Dayton.
About the Author