description Willamette Overview
The Willamette Meteorite is an iron meteorite found in Oregon and classified as a type IIIAB iron. Weighing about 15.5 metric tonnes, it is the largest meteorite discovered in the United States and is displayed at the American Museum of Natural History in New York. Its deeply pitted surface was shaped by atmospheric weathering, and the object also has cultural significance for the Confederated Tribes of the Grand Ronde Community of Oregon.
insights Ranking position
Willamette ranks #23 of 213 in the Meteorite ranking, behind ALH81005, ahead of Shergotty.
help Willamette FAQ
How large is the Willamette meteorite?
Willamette weighs about 15.5 metric tonnes, making it the largest meteorite found in the United States. It is an iron meteorite composed mainly of iron and nickel.
Why does the Willamette meteorite have deep holes?
Its cavities formed largely through terrestrial weathering as rainwater reacted with sulfur-rich inclusions in the metal. These sculpted hollows are not simply pits burned into it during atmospheric entry.
Did the Willamette meteorite create a crater in Oregon?
No impact crater has been identified at the Oregon discovery site. The meteorite was likely transported into the region by glacial ice and flood processes after landing elsewhere.
Why is the Willamette meteorite culturally important to the Confederated Tribes of Grand Ronde?
The Clackamas people regarded the meteorite, known as Tomanowos, as a sacred object long before settlers removed it. It is now displayed at the American Museum of Natural History under an agreement that permits ceremonial access by members of the Confederated Tribes of Grand Ronde.
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