Copper Culture State Park facts for kids
|
Oconto Site
|
|
Farmstead at Copper Culture State Park
|
|
 Location in Wisconsin
Location in the United States
|
|
| Location | Oconto, Wisconsin |
|---|---|
| NRHP reference No. | 66000023 |
Quick facts for kids Significant dates |
|
| Added to NRHP | October 15, 1966 |
| Designated NHL | January 20, 1961 |
Copper Culture State Park is a special 42-acre park in Oconto, Wisconsin. It's located in northeastern Wisconsin, United States. This park offers a mix of natural areas, old farmlands, and important archaeological sites. It also has a museum dedicated to Native American history.
Contents
Exploring Copper Culture State Park
Discovering Ancient History
The park is home to a very old burial ground. It was used by a group of early Native Americans called the Old Copper Complex Culture. They lived here about 5,000 to 6,000 years ago. This was during a time known as the Copper Age. This means they were skilled at using copper.
A 13-year-old boy made an amazing discovery in June 1952. He found human bones while playing in an old quarry. This led to the first archaeological dig that July. An archaeological dig is when experts carefully uncover and study things from the past.
Tools and Treasures from the Past
When archaeologists dug at the site, they found many ancient objects. Most of these were tools for everyday life, not just fancy decorations. These items, sometimes called grave goods, were made from different materials.
- Copper: Small pointed tools called awls, crescent shapes, and clasps. They also found a spear-point, a fishhook, a bracelet, and a spatula.
- Chipped stone: Tools for scraping and projectile points, which are tips for spears or arrows.
- Bone: An awl made from a fish jawbone. They also found a "fine specimen of a whistle" made from a swan's leg bone.
- Antler: Tools possibly used for shaping other materials.
- Shell: Beads made from pond snail shells.
This ancient burial ground is a National Historic Landmark. It is also listed on the National Register of Historic Places listings in Wisconsin. This means it is a very important historical site, protected within Copper Culture State Park.
Charles Werrebroeck Museum
The Oconto Archaic Copper Museum is inside the Charles Werrebroeck Museum. This building is a traditional Belgian-style farmhouse. It was built in 1924 by Charles Werrebroeck. Inside, you can see artifacts and photographs. These items come from the excavations done right here in the park.
Fun Activities and Nature
Copper Culture State Park is 40 acres of outdoor fun. You can find picnic tables and BBQ grills for a meal with family or friends. There are also restrooms and a community pavilion available.
Nature Trails and Wildlife
Nature trails let you explore different natural areas in the park.
- Mixed woodlands: Forests with a variety of trees.
- Riparian zone of the Oconto River: Areas along the river where you can also go fishing.
- Short-grass prairie: Open grassy areas with unique plants.
Visiting the Park
The Oconto County Historical Society manages Copper Culture State Park. This is a non-profit organization, not the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources. Because of this, there is no admission fee to enter the park. You do not need a Wisconsin state park pass. However, visitors are encouraged to make a donation at the museum.
The Charles Werrebroeck Museum, which includes the Oconto Archaic Copper Museum, is open during the summer. It opens daily from Memorial Day to Labor Day, from 10 AM to 4 PM. You can also visit by making an appointment. Admission is free, and guided tours are available.
See also
- Native American archeological sites on the National Register of Historic Places listings in Oconto County, Wisconsin'
- Archibald Lake Mound Group — near Townsend.
- Boulder Lake Site — near Doty
- White Potato Lake Garden Beds Site — near Brazeau
- Great Lakes tribal culture
