Fort Shantok Archeological District: A Glimpse into Mohegan History

Fort Shantok Archeological District, located in Uncasville, Connecticut, is a significant historical site and the location of the primary Mohegan settlement between 1636 and 1682. It served as the sacred ground for Uncas, a prominent Mohegan leader. The district offers visitors a unique opportunity to explore the history and culture of the Mohegan Tribe. Originally part of the Mohegan reservation, the land was taken by the state in the 20th century and became Fort Shantok State Park. In 1995, the state returned the park to the Mohegan Tribe following legal action. Today, the tribe operates the area as a local park and a place for tribal gatherings, including the annual Tribal Homecoming, Cultural Week, and Wigwam Festival. Visitors can walk the grounds, explore the trails, and learn about Mohegan traditions and their way of life through interpretive signs. The site overlooks the Thames River, providing scenic views that enhance its historical significance. Fort Shantok also features a burial ground with over one hundred identified graves and a memorial in the shape of a wigwam, commemorating Uncas and the battle where Lt. Thomas Leffingwell provided crucial assistance. The district is a National Historic Landmark, preserving Native American ceramics and offering insights into indigenous cultural changes resulting from European trade relations.