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Albany Mounds State Historic Site: Echoes of the Hopewell

Discover ancient burial mounds and explore the fascinating Hopewell culture at this significant Illinois historical site along the Mississippi River.

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Explore the ancient Albany Mounds State Historic Site, a significant archaeological area in Illinois. Discover the burial mounds of the Hopewell people and learn about their culture and history along the Mississippi River.

A brief summary to Albany Mounds State Historic Site

Local tips

  • Wear comfortable shoes for walking the trails around the mounds.
  • Bring binoculars for wildlife viewing, as the area is home to deer and eagles.
  • Visit during the spring or fall for the best weather and to avoid summer crowds.
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Getting There

  • Driving

    Albany Mounds State Historic Site is located near Albany, Illinois. From IL-84 N, turn onto S Park Ave in Albany, then turn onto S Cherry St until the end to reach the site. There is a parking lot available. Parking is free.

  • Walking

    From anywhere in Albany, Illinois, the site is accessible by foot. From the intersection of Route 84 and Main Street walk south on Main Street, then turn left onto 12th Avenue S. Follow 12th Avenue until you arrive at the park entrance.

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Discover more about Albany Mounds State Historic Site

Albany Mounds State Historic Site, located near the Mississippi River in Albany, Illinois, is a window into the world of the Hopewell people who inhabited the area over 2,000 years ago. This 205-acre site, listed on the National Register of Historic Places, contains the largest Hopewell Native American mound group in Illinois. The mounds, dating back to the Middle Woodland period (200 BCE-300 CE), served as burial sites for the dead. Archaeological excavations have revealed intricate burial practices and artifacts, including bead jewelry, pottery, and mica plates, indicating a complex trading network with other Native American groups. Originally, the site comprised ninety-six mounds; today, around forty-seven remain, with efforts underway to preserve them. Visitors can explore the site via walking trails, observing the unique flora and fauna of the area. Interpretive signs provide insights into the history and significance of the mounds and the Hopewell culture. The site offers a serene and reflective experience, connecting visitors with the rich cultural heritage of the region's earliest inhabitants.

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