Sheets Site facts for kids

The Sheets Site is an ancient place in Fulton County, Illinois. It's near the town of Lewistown. This site helps us learn about people who lived a very long time ago. They lived there between 700 and 400 years before Christ. This time is known as the Late Archaic and Early Woodland periods.

What is the Sheets Site?

The Sheets Site is an important archaeological site. This means it's a place where scientists study human history. They dig up old objects and structures. These findings tell us about how people lived in the past. The Sheets Site shows us about early people in Illinois.

Who Lived There? The Marion Culture

The people who lived at the Sheets Site were part of the Marion Culture. This group lived across northern Illinois and nearby states. We know about them from special things they left behind.

Tools and Pottery

Archaeologists found specific tools at the site. These include "Kramer projectile points." These were likely tips for spears or arrows. They also found "Marion Thick pottery." This is the oldest type of pottery found in Illinois. It helps us understand how people made and used containers.

Daily Life Clues

Scientists also found old firepits and hearths. These were places where people made fires. They used fires for cooking, warmth, and light. Studying these areas gives us clues. We can learn about what the Marion Culture ate. We can also learn how they found their food.

Protecting the Past: National Register

The Sheets Site is very important for understanding history. Because of this, it was added to the National Register of Historic Places. This happened on December 22, 1978. Being on this list helps protect the site. It makes sure we can keep learning from it for many years.