Over the years, there have been many exciting archaeological discoveries in Virginia. Each one sheds light on the state’s positively ancient history. A little over a decade ago, there was one such finding that truly put a state park on the map. A whale skeleton estimated to be approximately 15 million years old was discovered at Westmoreland State Park. Here’s more on this fascinating discovery and its significance.

On July 20th, 2013, a truly epic discovery was made at Westmoreland State Park, a lovely destination on the Potomac River near Montross, Virginia.
Virginia State Parks / flickr
Embedded within the cliffs near Stratford Hall was a massive 1,000-pound skull specimen!
Virginia State Parks / flickr
Archaeologists believe that these fossils belong to an ancient kind of creature known as a Baleen Whale from the Miocene era, approximately 10 to 15 million years ago.
Virginia State Parks / flickr

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What's especially significant about this find is that it's among the largest ever found in the region. The entire whale would have been about 35 feet long.
Virginia State Parks / flickr
If you've ever visited Westmoreland State Park, you know that it's an exciting place to search for fossils -- even tiny ones!
Virginia State Parks / flickr
Ocean species such as whales, alligators, and sharks can be released at any time due to eroding cliffs. These animals were all alive during a time when Richmond was part of the shoreline.
Virginia State Parks / flickr
In this particular photo, a porpoise skull is being excavated from the cliffs by Stephen J. Godfrey Ph.D., Curator of Paleontology at the Calvert Marine Museum.
Isn't it fascinating to think about which future archeological discoveries will be uncovered next?
Virginia State Parks / flickr

Have you visited Westmoreland State Park recently? Did you know about this ancient whale, and do you agree that it’s one of the most fascinating archaeological discoveries in Virginia? Feel free to share your thoughts with us in the comments below — we’d love to hear from you! For more information about planning your trip, be sure to check out the Westmoreland State Park website.

Westmoreland is also an incredible kayaking destination. Rentals are available during the summer, or you can stock up on some gear of your own!

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Westmoreland State Park, 145 Cliff Road, 145 Cliff Rd, Montross, VA 22520, USA