Caldwell Footprint
The Caldwell Footprint is a controversial impression in Texas limestone that some claim resembles a human footprint from the Cretaceous period.
Quick Facts
| Location Found: | Paluxy River, Texas |
| Discovery Date: | Late 1950's |
| Current Location: | Unknown, Casting at Creation Evidence Museum |
| Authenticity: | Unknown |
| Open to the Public: | Yes |
A Curious Mark in Texas Limestone
In the late 1950s, Dr. Billy Caldwell, a skilled geologist, transitioned from the oil industry to open a stone supply business in Fort Worth, Texas. This move led to a remarkable encounter with a unique artifact that would ignite curiosity in the world of ancient mysteries.
In 1964, one of Dr. Caldwell’s stone suppliers, Bill Osborn, arrived from Glen Rose, Texas, with an unusual item in his truck—a large stone slab featuring what looked like a giant human footprint. Osborn explained that he and his team had uncovered the print while quarrying in the Paluxy River. Fascinated by the find and aware of its potential historical implications, Osborn decided to extract the slab from the riverbed, bringing it to Dr. Caldwell’s attention.
Dr. Caldwell closely examined the footprint and found it compelling, endorsing its authenticity. Shortly after this encounter, Osborn informed Dr. Caldwell that he planned to sell the fossil to a buyer in Houston, Texas. Before the sale, Dr. Caldwell requested permission to make a casting of the print to preserve its legacy. Osborn agreed, and Dr. Caldwell carefully created a replica of the extraordinary fossil.
The original footprint slab was reportedly displayed at the 1965 World’s Fair, where it captivated audiences and became part of OOPArt lore. However, it has not been publicly seen since. Today, Dr. Caldwell’s cast remains on display at the Creation Evidence Museum in Glen Rose, Texas, allowing visitors to view and consider this intriguing anomaly—a fossilized footprint that invites us to question our understanding of history and timelines.
The Caldwell Footprint, with its blend of historical mystery and scientific intrigue, stands as a fascinating artifact that reminds us of the potential for hidden chapters in the story of humankind.