Mound House (Greene County, Illinois) facts for kids
Quick facts for kids |
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Mound House Site
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 Location in Illinois
Location in the United States
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| Location | Eastern bank of the Illinois River, ½ mile west of the end of 600E |
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| Nearest city | Hillview, Illinois |
| Area | 10.5 acres (4.2 ha) |
| NRHP reference No. | 78001148 |
| Added to NRHP | September 1, 1978 |
The Mound House is an exciting ancient place located in Greene County, Illinois. It sits near the Illinois River in a flat area called a floodplain. This site is special because different groups of people lived there over many years. The large mounds you see were built long ago during the Middle Woodland period. They are linked to an ancient group called the Havana Hopewell culture. There are two main mounds at this important location.
The site got its name, Mound House, because a farmer once built his home right on top of Mound 1. This was the biggest mound! The house is gone now, and the land is cared for by the Center for American Archeology. This group helps study and protect old places. Because it's so important, the Mound House site was added to the National Register of Historic Places on September 1, 1978. This means it's a special place worth protecting.
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What is an Archeological Site?
An archeological site is a place where scientists called archeologists study the past. They dig carefully to find old tools, pottery, bones, and other things left behind by people who lived there long ago. These discoveries help us learn about how ancient cultures lived, what they ate, what their homes looked like, and even what they believed. The Mound House site is a great example of where such discoveries can be made.
The Middle Woodland Period
The Middle Woodland period was a time in North American history that lasted from about 200 BC to 500 AD. During this period, Native American groups became more settled. They started farming more, making better pottery, and creating complex art. They also built large earthworks, like the mounds found at Mound House. These mounds were often used for burials or for special ceremonies.
The Havana Hopewell Culture
The Havana Hopewell culture was a major group during the Middle Woodland period. They lived in the central part of North America, especially along the Illinois River valley. The Hopewell people were known for their amazing craftsmanship. They made beautiful objects from copper, mica, and obsidian, which they traded over long distances. They also built impressive earthworks, including large burial mounds and geometric enclosures. The mounds at the Mound House site show that the Havana Hopewell people were active in this area.
Why Mounds Were Built
Ancient people built mounds for many reasons. Often, they were used as burial places for important people in the community. Sometimes, they were platforms for special buildings or temples. Mounds could also mark important places or serve as meeting spots for ceremonies. The mounds at Mound House likely had a significant purpose for the Havana Hopewell people who built them. Studying these mounds helps archeologists understand the beliefs and social structures of these ancient cultures.
