Fort Shantok Archeological District: A Glimpse into Mohegan History

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Discover the rich heritage of the Mohegan Tribe at Fort Shantok, a National Historic Landmark in Uncasville, Connecticut.

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Fort Shantok Archeological District

Explore Fort Shantok Archeological District in Uncasville, CT, the site of the primary 17th-century Mohegan settlement and sacred grounds of Sachem Uncas. Walk the trails, learn about Mohegan culture, and reflect on the history of this National Historic Landmark overlooking the Thames River.

A brief summary to Fort Shantok Archeological District

75 Gallivan Ln, Uncasville, Uncasville, Connecticut, 06382, US

Local tips

Wear comfortable walking shoes, as the terrain can be uneven.
Visit early in the morning or late afternoon for cooler temperatures and fewer crowds.
Bring a camera to capture the stunning landscapes and historical markers.
Check for any guided tours or events for a deeper understanding of the site's history.
Respect the site and its significance to Native American heritage.

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Getting There

Driving

If arriving by car, use a GPS or navigation app to reach 75 Gallivan Ln, Uncasville, CT 06382. From the Mohegan Sun Casino, take Route 32 towards Uncasville. Turn onto Fort Shantok Road, and the entrance will be on your left in about a mile. Parking is available in a medium-sized lot near the entrance. There are no parking fees.
Public Transport

To reach Fort Shantok via public transportation, take the 8 bus from the Mohegan Sun Casino Bus Terminal towards Uncasville. Get off at the stop closest to Gallivan Lane. Walk approximately 0.5 miles northwest on CT-32, then turn left onto Gallivan Lane. The site will be on your right. Check local bus schedules for times and fares. A single fare on CT Transit is typically around $1.75.
Walking

From the Mohegan Sun, walking to Fort Shantok is approximately 2.5 miles and will take about 50 minutes. Head north on Mohegan Sun Boulevard, then turn left onto Route 32 North. Continue on Route 32 for about 2 miles, then turn left onto Gallivan Lane. Fort Shantok will be on your right. Be aware that Route 32 can have heavy traffic, so exercise caution while walking alongside the road.

Discover more about Fort Shantok Archeological District

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.