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Albany Mounds State Historic Site: Echoes of the Hopewell

Explore ancient burial mounds and discover the rich history of the Hopewell culture at this significant Illinois archaeological site.

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Explore the ancient Albany Mounds State Historic Site, a significant archaeological area in Illinois. This site features preserved burial mounds from the Middle Woodland period, offering a glimpse into the Hopewell culture that thrived over 2,000 years ago.

A brief summary to Albany Mounds State Historic Site

Local tips

  • Wear comfortable shoes, as the site involves walking on trails.
  • Bring a camera to capture the scenic views of the mounds and surrounding landscape.
  • Visit early in the morning or late afternoon for a more peaceful experience.
  • Pack a picnic to enjoy in the picnic area.
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Getting There

  • Driving

    Albany Mounds State Historic Site is located at 12th Ave S, Albany, IL 61230. From major roads like US-20 or IL-84, head towards Albany. Once in Albany, follow the signs to 12th Ave S. Ample parking is available at the site. Fuel costs will vary depending on your starting point.

  • Public Transportation

    To reach Albany Mounds via public transportation, take a bus to a nearby city like Clinton, Iowa, or Freeport, Illinois. From there, use a rideshare service or taxi to reach Albany, as public transit options directly to Albany may be limited. A ride from Clinton or Freeport to Albany typically costs around $20-$30, depending on distance and service.

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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 lives of Native Americans who inhabited the area over 2,000 years ago. The site is particularly significant for its well-preserved burial mounds constructed by the Hopewell people during the Middle Woodland period (200 BCE-300 CE). While the term 'Hopewell' doesn't refer to a specific tribe, it represents a cultural period characterized by trade, communication, and shared ideas across a wide geographic area. Originally, the site consisted of ninety-six mounds; today, approximately forty remain, with thirty-nine in good condition. These mounds served as burial sites, and excavations have revealed valuable insights into the Hopewell culture, including their burial practices and trade networks. Artifacts discovered within the mounds include non-local materials, indicating extensive trade connections with other Native American groups. The Hopewell people strategically built their villages near rivers, utilizing them for transportation and access to resources. The nearby Meredosia Slough provided flood drainage and an abundant source of food and water. Visitors to Albany Mounds can explore the site via walking trails with interpretive signs that explain the local flora and the history of the mounds. The site also offers a glimpse into the natural environment, with opportunities to observe wildlife such as deer and eagles. Albany Mounds is older than both Cahokia and Dickson Mounds. In 1974, the site was added to the National Register of Historic Places.

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