Dickson Mounds - October 9 2013

Temple Mound at right 10.9.13

John and Pat at Dickson Mounds 10.9.13



Aleen Harms at Dickson Mounds

Nine Couples from our P day group went to Dickson Mounds --- about a two hour drive from Nauvoo.  We were met by the archeologist Allen Harms.  He gave us interesting insights into the mounds which were discovered by Dr. Don Dickson on his property in 1927.  Mr. Harms has been employed there for 52 years since 1960.  He took us into the lab where he showed us how they label and classify all of their finds.  They have displayed the bones of two huge bison that were found nearby.

The Native Americans lived in this area about 1200 A.D.  They have an excellent museum which shows the type of culture, homes, and activities of these people – from gatherers to farmers.  They found the rich soil of Middle America was conducive to growing corn, beans, and other crops.

The mounds were used for burials.  Many of the communities had a large “temple” mound where they had a temple and/or the home of the chief on top.  The displays also showed large open areas for people to gather for sports and important occasions.

We liked the enthusiasm and attitude of Mr. Harms.  He said that he wakes up excited every morning thinking, “What am I going to find today?”