It is positively absurd to consider this a "fossil man." It has
none of the indications that would designate it as such, when
examined by a practical chemist, geologist or naturalist. The
underside is somewhat dissolved, and presents a very rough surface,
and it is probable that all the back or lower portion, was never
chiseled into form, and may have been designed to rest as a tablet.
However, as the statue has not been raised, the correct appearance
of the under surface has not been determined, save by feeling as
I pressed my hand as far as I could reach under different portions
of the body, while its lower half lay beneath the water.

This is one of the greatest curiosities of the early history of
Onondaga county, and my great desire is that it should be preserved
for the Onondaga Historical Society. Efforts are being made by
some of our citizens to secure this in the county where it belongs,
and not suffer it to bear the fate of other archeological specimens
found in this region.

Hoping to be able to write you more in a few days, I remain
yours truly, JOHN F. BOYNTON."


IS THE BODY A PETRIFACTION?

"The majority of visitors disagree with the opinion of Dr. Boynton,
that the figure is a statue, and pronounce it a petrified man. It is
claimed that no sculptor would have invented such an unheard of
position and design for a statue. No sculptor could have so perfectly
imitated nature, especially in the minutiae which render the image
such a wonder. It is claimed by the stone cutters and quarrymen