Lake Jackson Mounds Archaeological State Park Sheds Light on American Indians
Lake Jackson Mounds Archaeological State Park is both a natural wonder and a living piece of Florida history.
The state park, located just north of downtown Tallahassee, features six earthen temple mounds and one possible burial mound constructed by the American Indians who first settled the area around Lake Jackson more than eight centuries ago. The largest of the Lake Jackson mounds is 278 feet-by-312 feet at the base and approximately 36 feet in height.
As the name of the park implies, it has been a significant archaeological site for some time. Artifacts of pre-Columbian societies have been found here including copper breastplates, necklaces, bracelets, anklets and cloaks. Re-creations of many of those artifacts are on display in the park's main pavilion.
Visitors can also view the remains of an 1800s grist mill or picnic on an open grassy area near the largest mound.
The native people who first lived here are referred to simply as the Lake Jackson Indians, since their settlement preceded established tribes such as the Seminole or Timucuan. Based on the sophistication of the mounds and the elaborate artifacts found here, it is believed their society had a well-organized political system with tribal leaders.
These exotic artifacts indicate religious and trading ties with other large, pre-historic Indian ceremonial centers in the Southeast United States. There is evidence the Lake Jackson Indians participated in a Southeastern socio-religious complex known to archaeologists as the "Southern Cult" or "Southeastern Ceremonial Complex," which flourished around A.D. 1200.
The Lake Jackson area was likely the political and religious center for Indians in this area between 1200 and 1500.
Beyond the mounds, the park has a number of other features:
Picnic area -- A lovely shaded picnic area is located between a smaller mound and the largest mound at the park.
Grass field -- A wide-open expanse of grass beckons to visitors to come and enjoy the many facets of the park.
Artifact replicas -- The rich history of Lake Jackson Mounds is brought to life with replicas of actual artifacts found by archaeologists during excavations at this site. Exhibits drawing further connections to the site can be seen on the far side of the large pavilion.
Archaeology display -- A history of the scientific exploration of the site.
Hiking trails -- Walk the beautiful ravine trails and climb to the top of two of Florida’s mounds for a unique view of large oaks, streams and picnic area.
Ranger-guided tours of the mounds are available for reservation two weeks in advance.
Posted on Mar 31, 2011 by Christopher Lloyd
