Background

Hampson Archeological Museum State Park: Unearthing the Nodena Culture

Discover the ancient world of the Nodena people at Hampson Archeological Museum State Park in historic Wilson, Arkansas.

4.6

Explore the fascinating world of the Nodena people (A.D. 1400-1650) at this unique museum located on Wilson, Arkansas's historic town square. See artifacts excavated from a nearby village, offering insights into their daily life, farming practices, art, religion, and social structure.

A brief summary to Hampson Archeological Museum State Park

  • Wednesday 8 am-5 pm
  • Thursday 8 am-5 pm
  • Friday 8 am-5 pm
  • Saturday 8 am-5 pm
  • Sunday 1 pm-5 pm

Local tips

  • Visit during the week for a quieter, more personal experience.
  • Check the museum's schedule for special events and educational programs.
  • Combine your visit with a stroll around Wilson's unique Tudor-style town square.
widget icon

Getting There

  • Driving

    Hampson Archeological Museum State Park is located on the town square in Wilson, Arkansas. Wilson is located a few miles west of US Highway 61. From US-61, follow signs to Wilson. Once in Wilson, the museum is easily found on the main square. Parking is available around the square.

  • Walking

    The Hampson Archeological Museum is located in the center of the town of Wilson. If you are already in Wilson, for example, at the Wilson Cafe, the Grange, or the Louis Hotel, you can easily walk to the museum. It is located on the town square.

Unlock the Best of Hampson Archeological Museum State Park

Buy tickets

    No tickets available

Book tours with entry

    No tours available

Book tours without entry

    No tours available

Discover more about Hampson Archeological Museum State Park

Hampson Archeological Museum State Park offers a captivating glimpse into the lives of the Nodena people, a Native American civilization that thrived along the Mississippi River from approximately 1400 to 1650 A.D.. The museum's exhibits showcase a remarkable collection of artifacts recovered from the Nodena Site, a 15-acre palisaded village that once stood just east of present-day Wilson. The museum's story is intertwined with that of Dr. James K. Hampson, a local physician and amateur archaeologist who dedicated much of his life to excavating and preserving the Nodena Site. Beginning in the 1920s, Hampson and his family meticulously collected, documented, and studied over 40,000 artifacts, providing invaluable insights into Nodena culture. His collection includes pottery, tools, and ornaments. The exhibits explore various facets of Nodena life, including their agricultural practices, hunting techniques, artistic expression, religious beliefs, and political organization. Don't miss the displays of the distinctive Nodena Red and White pottery and the unique Nodena Willow Leaf Point. The museum also highlights the extensive trade network that connected the Nodena people with other Mississippian cultures throughout the Midwest and South. The museum is located on the town square in Wilson, a town known for its unique Tudor-style architecture.

Popular Experiences near Hampson Archeological Museum State Park

Popular Hotels near Hampson Archeological Museum State Park

Select Currency