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Dickson Mounds State Museum: Window to Illinois's Past

Explore 12,000 years of Native American history at Dickson Mounds State Museum, featuring exhibits, artifacts, and archaeological sites in the Illinois River Valley.

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Dickson Mounds State Museum, near Lewistown, Illinois, is a premier archaeological museum offering a glimpse into 12,000 years of Native American history in the Illinois River Valley. Innovative exhibits, artifacts, and multimedia presentations tell the story of the region's early inhabitants from the Ice Age to the 19th century.

A brief summary to Dickson Mounds State Museum

Local tips

  • Check the Illinois State Museum website for information on current exhibits and special events before your visit.
  • Explore the outdoor trails and the Eveland Village to see the remains of early Native American structures.
  • Allow at least 2-3 hours to fully experience the museum and its grounds.
  • Pack a picnic to enjoy at the museum's picnic grounds.
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Getting There

  • Driving

    Dickson Mounds State Museum is located off Illinois Route 97/78 between Lewistown and Havana. From either town, follow the highway until you see signs for the museum. Turn onto Dickson Mounds Road and follow it to the museum entrance. Parking is available in the museum lot. Note that the museum parking lot closes at 4 PM; after that, use the Eveland Village or Picnic Hill parking lots.

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Discover more about Dickson Mounds State Museum

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.

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