Overview

• The 255-character runic carving was exposed in 2018 near Wawa, Ontario, when a fallen tree uncovered the bedrock inscription.
• Archaeologist Ryan Primrose confirmed in 2025 that the symbols spell out the Lord’s Prayer in Swedish using ancient Nordic runes.
• Research indicates the carving was likely created by Swedish workers employed by the Hudson’s Bay Company in the 1800s.
• The absence of surrounding artifacts and signs of intentional burial suggest the site served as an outdoor place of worship.
• Local authorities and archaeologists plan to erect a protective structure and open the site to the public as a heritage landmark.