North Carolina residents and visitors alike may explore a variety of historical locations throughout Eastern NC and across the state. One such historic site dedicated to North Carolina’s Native American heritage is Town Creek Indian Mound. Archaeologists have worked the site since it was acquired by the state in 1937— with the site archeological designation of “Pee Dee” placing it in the A.D. 1100-1400 years.
Town Creek Indian Mound is located at 509 Town Creek Mound Road, Mount Gilead, North Carolina.
The mound at Town Creek is believed to have original been constructed over a rectangular “earth lodge”. Eventually this structure likely collapsed, after which the area was covered to produce the low earthen mound, serving as a platform for building a temple or town house. The mound faced a large public area where meetings and ceremonies could be held, and included other structures around the plaza.
The site today provides visitors with access to artifacts, and include exhibits recreated to allow “walking through history”. The site includes a reconstructed ceremonial center, the mound and major temple, the minor temple, and a burial house or mortuary.
If you’re planning a visit to this archeological site, check out events and more historical information on Town Creek Indian Mound is on the website nchistoricsites.org/town/town.htm. Their Facebook page — www.facebook.com/towncreekindianmound — includes updates and events. Their power was affected by Hurricane Matthew. To confirm open hours, call 910.439.6802 or email for more details.
