Bloodhound Site facts for kids

The Bloodhound Site (also known as 16-WF-21) is a special place in West Feliciana Parish, Louisiana, United States. It's an archaeological site, which means it's a spot where scientists dig up old things to learn about people who lived there long ago. This particular site was home to the Tunica tribe for nearly 50 years, from 1700 to 1749. It gives us important clues about their lives and culture.

What is the Bloodhound Site?

The Bloodhound Site is like a giant puzzle from the past. It covers about 2.5 acres, which is roughly the size of two football fields. For many years, it was a busy village and a place where the Tunica people buried their loved ones.

Archaeologists study sites like this to understand history. They carefully dig up artifacts, which are objects made or used by people in the past. These artifacts can be tools, pottery, jewelry, or even parts of old buildings.

Why is it Important?

The Bloodhound Site is very important because it helps us learn about the Tunica tribe. Before written records, people didn't write down their daily lives. Archaeological sites fill in these gaps. By studying what they left behind, we can learn about their homes, what they ate, how they hunted, and their beliefs.

The site was officially recognized on May 2, 1983. It was added to the National Register of Historic Places. This list includes places across the United States that are important for history, architecture, archaeology, engineering, or culture.

What Did Archaeologists Find?

When archaeologists explored the Bloodhound Site, they found many clues. These clues helped them understand how the Tunica people lived. They found evidence of a village, showing where homes might have been. They also found burial sites, which are very important for understanding the Tunica's spiritual practices and community structure.

The objects found at the site tell a story. They show how the Tunica people adapted to their environment. They also show how they interacted with other groups, including early European settlers.

Who Were the Tunica People?

The Tunica people are a Native American tribe. They traditionally lived in the lower Mississippi River valley. They were known for their trading skills and their unique language.

The Tunica tribe moved around quite a bit over time. The Bloodhound Site shows one period when they settled in West Feliciana Parish. Their time at this site, from 1700 to 1749, was a significant period in their history.

Daily Life at the Site

Life at the Bloodhound Site for the Tunica people would have been focused on survival and community. They likely hunted animals, fished in nearby waters, and gathered wild plants for food. They might have also farmed crops like corn, beans, and squash.

The village would have been a center for daily activities. People would have made tools, woven baskets, and crafted pottery. Children would have played and learned from their elders. The community worked together to build homes and protect their village.

Tunica Culture and Traditions

The Tunica people had rich traditions and a strong culture. Their beliefs were often connected to nature and the spiritual world. Burial sites, like those found at the Bloodhound Site, are sacred places. They show respect for ancestors and beliefs about the afterlife.

The artifacts found at the Bloodhound Site help us understand their art, their ceremonies, and their daily routines. These discoveries help keep the history and culture of the Tunica people alive for future generations.