Dickson Mounds State Museum, Illinois River Valley Travel Guide

Dickson Mounds State Museum, a branch of the Illinois State Museum and listed on the National Register of Historic Places, stands as one of the nation's major on-site archaeological museums. Here, visitors embark on an awe-inspiring journey through 12,000 years of human history in the Illinois River Valley, exploring the world of the American Indian through innovative and beautifully designed displays, multimedia productions, and ancient artifacts.The museum's exhibits recount the development of Native American life, beginning with their arrival near the end of the Ice Age, when colossal creatures like the American Mastodon roamed the landscape. The story unfolds through exhibits detailing gathering and hunting, gardening, and the rise and fall of the Mississippian way of life. A significant portion of the museum is dedicated to the Mississippian culture, which thrived from around A.D. 1100 to 1400, sustained by maize cultivation and supported by a network of villages and farmsteads.Visitors can also explore the Eveland Village, where the excavated remains of three early Indian buildings are preserved. The museum grounds feature walking trails that wind through 230 acres of scenic landscapes, including picnic areas, a playground, and a restored prairie. The Discovery Center provides hands-on activities for all ages, while the Resource Center offers a library of books and computer access to relevant programs.While a previous exhibit displaying uncovered skeletons was closed in 1992 due to Native American concerns, the museum continues to adapt and offer a world-class experience. Today, Dickson Mounds is considered the premier site for studying and interpreting the prehistory of the Illinois River Valley, one of the richest archaeological regions in the United States.