LARGEST CAVE IN THE WORLD.

New Zealand Tablet, Volume X, Issue 475, 19 May 1882, Page 13

LARGEST CAVE IN THE WORLD.

(From the Oraygon Advocate.') The great cave lately discovered here has been visited by a multitude of people from various points of the United States. We think that Leitchfield is destined to become the great " Mecca" of the world— for the Masonic fraternity, and scientists generally. For the last two weeks no one has been admitted to the cave except upon presenting a written permit from Mr. Rogers, and those who have been fortunate enough to be admitted have been principally scientists abroad who journeyed here to see the great wonder for themselves. It was necessary to take this step, as the cave was rapidly being despoiled of its contents. Indeed, several of the mummies and some of the smaller Masonic emblems were carried off before Mr. Rogers— or, in fact, any of our citizens— realized the importance of the discovery, and of preserving the contents of the cave intact. The subterranean river has been so swollen from the excessive rains of the last month that no explorations have been made in the avenue beyond it. Excavations have been made, however, in the chambers or catacombs where the mummies and Masonic emblems were found and in the vicinity of the pyramid, and several tablets with queer hieroglyphics have been dug up, also some bronze and copper vases, and pieces of pottery. A mound was opened and found to contain six well-preserved mummies reposing ia regular order with feet radiating from the centre. In the discovery of this cave the key is undoubtedly found that will unlock the mystery of the pre-historic race of America, and also prove their identity with the ancient Egyptian race, who undoubtedly crossed over and peopled this continent, built temples, and flourished in a high degree of civilisation until wiped out of existence by tha ruthless hand of the savage. The caves of Kentucky undoubtedly afforded them shelter and protection, and were used as a sort of catacomb for the storage of all that was near and dear to them, including their illustrious dead. Such, at least, seems to have been the case in this instance, whether this theory will apply to the other caves of Kentucky or not. Many beautiful formations have been discovered during the last week. The stalactites and stalagmites glisten, like so many miJlion diamonds. The pillars and columns of alabaster are beautiful beyond description, and its wonders will have to be seen to be fully appreciated.