Mound About It: A Hilarious Look at Illinois' Earthen Enigmas
Ever driven through Illinois and wondered about those mysterious grassy bumps on the horizon? No, it's not an alien landing strip (although that would be way cooler). Those, my friends, are mounds – ancient earthworks built by Native American civilizations.
But Illinois isn't just lumpy ground central. It boasts some of the most impressive mounds in North America, each with their own fascinating story. So, buckle up, history buffs and fans of dirt piles (hey, no judgement!), because we're about to dig into two of the most mound-tastic sites in the state.
The Grandaddy of 'Em All: Cahokia Mounds
Cahokia Mounds stands tall (well, wide actually) as the largest pre-Columbian settlement north of Mexico. Imagine a bustling metropolis, circa 1100 AD, complete with thousands of residents, fancy (for the time) architecture, and ceremonial shenanigans – all built around these earthworks.
The star of the show is undoubtedly Monks Mound, a behemoth that would make your grandma's molehill weep. This bad boy is the biggest prehistoric earthen structure in the Americas, and you can even climb it for panoramic views (just don't wear your best white after a rain shower).
Tip: Rest your eyes, then continue.
Fun Fact: Archaeologists are still scratching their heads about exactly why Cahokia was built and then abandoned. Maybe they just got tired of mowing all those grassy hills?
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| What Two Mound Sites Can Be Found In Illinois |
The Not-So-Identical Twins: Twin Mounds
Over near Havana, Illinois, you'll find the slightly less-famous, but equally intriguing, Twin Mounds. Unlike their Cahokia cousin, these guys are a bit older, dating back to the Middle Woodland period (think way back, like 150 BC to 150 AD).
Tip: Reread if it feels confusing.
These two mounds are a testament to the ingenuity of early Native American cultures. Sure, they might not have the pizzazz of Cahokia, but they still offer a glimpse into the lives and rituals of the people who built them. Who knows, maybe they even hosted epic mound-rolling competitions? (Probably not, but a fun thought nonetheless).
Mound FAQs
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How to get to Cahokia Mounds?
QuickTip: Look for patterns as you read.
Cahokia Mounds State Historic Site is located near Collinsville, Illinois. You can find all the info you need on their website, including directions and hours of operation.
How to climb Monks Mound?
There's a designated trail that leads to the top of Monks Mound. Just be prepared for a bit of a climb (it is a giant mound, after all).
How much does it cost to visit the Twin Mounds?
Note: Skipping ahead? Don’t miss the middle sections.
The Twin Mounds are located on private property, so access may vary. It's always best to check before you go.
How can I learn more about Illinois' mounds?
The Illinois Historic Preservation Agency has a wealth of information on their website about mounds and other archaeological sites in the state.
How to appreciate a good mound?
Stand in awe of its size, ponder the mysteries of the past, and maybe even imagine rolling down it (but please don't – respect the history!).
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