Copper Culture State Park facts for kids
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Oconto Site
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Farmstead at Copper Culture State Park
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 Location in Wisconsin
Location in the United States
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| Location | Oconto, Wisconsin |
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| NRHP reference No. | 66000023 |
Quick facts for kids Significant dates |
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| Added to NRHP | October 15, 1966 |
| Designated NHL | January 20, 1961 |
Copper Culture State Park is a special place in Oconto, Wisconsin, covering about 42 acres. It's located in northeastern Wisconsin. This park is known for its beautiful natural areas, old farmlands, and very important archaeological sites. It also has a museum about Native American history.
Contents
Discovering Ancient History
An Ancient Burial Ground
The park holds an ancient burial ground. This site was used by early Native Americans who lived here between 5,000 and 6,000 years ago. These people are known as the Old Copper Complex Culture. They lived during a time called the Copper Age, when people started using copper to make tools.
How It Was Found
This amazing site was found by accident in June 1952. A 13-year-old boy was playing in an old quarry when he found some human bones. This discovery led to the first archaeological dig in July of that year. An archaeological dig is when experts carefully uncover and study old things buried in the ground.
What They Found: Ancient Artifacts
During the digs, many ancient objects, called artifacts, were found. Most of these items were tools used for daily life, rather than decorations. They were made from different materials:
- Copper: People made tools like awls (sharp tools), crescents (moon-shaped items), and clasps. They also found a spear-point, a fishhook, a bracelet, and even a spatula made of copper.
- Stone: Some tools were made from chipped stone, such as scrapers and projectile points (like arrowheads).
- Bone: An awl made from a fish jawbone was found. They also discovered a "whistle" made from a swan's leg bone!
- Antler: Pieces of antler were found, possibly used as tools for shaping other materials.
- Shell: Small beads made from pond snail shells were also uncovered.
This ancient burial ground is so important that it's recognized as a National Historic Landmark. It's also listed on the National Register of Historic Places listings in Wisconsin. This means it's a protected site within Copper Culture State Park.
Visiting the Park
Charles Werrebroeck Museum
Inside the park, you can visit the Charles Werrebroeck Museum. This building is a traditional Belgian-style farmhouse built in 1924. It's also home to the Oconto Archaic Copper Museum. Here, you can see many of the artifacts and photographs from the archaeological digs that happened right in the park.
Fun Things to Do
Copper Culture State Park is a great place to visit. Besides the museum, you'll find picnic tables and BBQ grills for outdoor meals. There are also restrooms and a community pavilion.
Exploring Nature
The park has nature trails where you can explore different natural areas:
- Forests: Walk through beautiful woodlands, part of the Laurentian Mixed Forest Province.
- River: Discover the riverbanks of the Oconto River and even go fishing.
- Prairies: See areas of short-grass prairie, which are open grassy lands.
Park Access and Hours
Copper Culture State Park is managed by the Oconto County Historical Society. This is a non-profit group, not the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources. This means you don't need a special Wisconsin state park pass to enter, and admission is free! However, donations at the museum are always welcome.
The Charles Werrebroeck Museum, including the Oconto Archaic Copper Museum, is open during the summer. You can visit from Memorial Day to Labor Day, on Saturdays and Sundays, from 11 AM to 3 PM. You can also arrange a visit by appointment. Admission is free, and guided tours are available.
