Dickson Mounds State Museum: Window to Illinois's Past

Dickson Mounds State Museum, a branch of the Illinois State Museum and a National Historic Site, presents a captivating journey through 12,000 years of human experience in the Illinois River Valley. The museum is situated on a bluff overlooking the Illinois River, near Lewistown, in Fulton County.The museum's story began with chiropractor Don Dickson, who in 1927, started excavating burial mounds on his family farm. Instead of removing the remains, he carefully removed the dirt and initially covered the excavation with a tent, later replacing it with a building to house his private museum. This attracted significant attention, drawing 40,000 visitors in its first year.Today, the museum features exhibits showcasing the diverse cultures that inhabited the Illinois River Valley, from Ice Age hunters to tribal groups. Visitors can explore artifacts, view murals and photographs, and engage with hands-on exhibits. A multi-media show brings the Mississippian culture to life through lights, music, and sound. The museum also features a Discovery Center and Resource Center.Outdoor attractions include the Eveland Village, where the excavated remains of three early Native American buildings are visible. Visitors can also explore walking trails that wind through the museum's 235-acre grounds, including a restored prairie.The museum is open Tuesday through Saturday, 9:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.. Admission is free.