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The Criel Mound: Unearthing Ancient History in West virginia
Table of Contents
Archaeologists in West Virginia continue to study the Criel Mound, a remarkable earthwork constructed between 250 and 150 BC. The mound, located in present-day Mason County, offers a glimpse into the lives of the people who inhabited the region over two millennia ago. This site represents a crucial piece of understanding the pre-Columbian history of the Ohio river Valley.
Construction and Purpose
the Criel Mound is a conical burial mound, built by the Adena culture-a Native American culture that flourished in the region during the Early Woodland period. The mound’s construction involved the careful layering of earth and stone, a process that likely required significant communal effort. Its precise purpose remains a subject of ongoing research, but it is widely believed to have served as a ceremonial and burial site for significant members of the community.
Did You No? The Adena culture is known for its elaborate burial rituals and distinctive earthworks, including mounds, circles, and squares.
Discoveries Within the Mound
excavations of the Criel Mound have revealed a complex arrangement of human remains. Archaeologists discovered two skeletons near the mound’s summit and eleven more at its base.the placement of these individuals suggests a hierarchical structure to the burials, perhaps indicating social status or religious significance. Further analysis of the skeletal remains is ongoing to determine age, sex, and possible causes of death.
Pro Tip: archaeological sites are fragile. Respect boundaries and report any potential finds to local authorities.
Timeline of Investigation
| Period | Event |
|---|---|
| 250-150 BC | Mound Construction |
| 19th Century | Initial Explorations |
| 2000s | Modern Archaeological Studies |
| Present | Ongoing Research & Preservation |
Cultural Context and Significance
The Criel Mound is part of a larger network of Adena and Hopewell mound sites throughout the Ohio river Valley. These sites demonstrate a shared cultural tradition and a elegant understanding of engineering and social organization. These mounds are not simply piles of dirt; they are monuments to a complex and vibrant culture
says Dr. Emily Carter, a leading archaeologist specializing in the Adena culture.
“The Adena people were skilled artisans and builders, leaving behind a legacy of extraordinary earthworks that continue to fascinate and inspire us today.” - National Park Service
The mound’s preservation is crucial for understanding the prehistory of West Virginia and the broader Appalachian region. Continued research promises to reveal more about the people who built and used this remarkable site.
What further insights might future archaeological investigations reveal about the Criel Mound and the Adena culture? How can we best protect and preserve these critically important cultural heritage sites for future generations?
The Adena culture: A Lasting Legacy
The Adena culture, preceding the more well-known Hopewell culture, laid the foundation for many of the traditions and practices observed in the Ohio River valley for centuries.Their influence extended beyond mound building to include pottery, stone tools, and elaborate burial rituals. Understanding the adena culture provides a vital link to the indigenous history of the region and challenges conventional narratives about early American societies.
Frequently Asked Questions about the Criel Mound
- What is the Criel Mound? it’s an ancient burial mound in West Virginia, built by the Adena culture between 250-150 BC.
- Who built the Criel Mound? The Adena people, an indigenous culture that flourished in the Ohio River Valley during the Early Woodland period, constructed the mound.
- What was found inside the Criel Mound? archaeologists discovered a total of thirteen skeletons
