Crystal River Archaeological State Park - Crystal River, Florida

Preserving a group of ancient Indian mounds, the Crystal River Archaeological State Park home to one of the most significant archaeological sites in the United States.

The site was occupied for a span of more than 2,000 years and the first burial mound was built several hundred years before the birth of Christ. Over the centuries that followed, the inhabitants developed their town into a major ceremonial center.

Researchers believe that the mounds and mysterious stone stele or monuments found there were aligned to form a giant astronomical observatory, so that the inhabitants could time the passing of the seasons. Two of the unusual limestone stele can still be seen on the grounds. One of them bears the weathered carving of a human face.

The most stunning aspect of the park, however, is Mound A, a large platform mound overlooking the Crystal River. Wooden stairs lead up the side to the top, where visitors can take in a stunning view of the river and entire archaeological site. Sadly, even though what remains is impressive, only 1/4 or so of the original mound remains. The rest was carried away years ago and used as fill.

To learn more about the park, please visit www.exploresouthernhistory.com/crystalrivermounds.

Lake Jackson Mounds - Tallahassee, Florida

Lake Jackson Mounds Archaeological State Park preserves the site of an ancient city that thrived on the present site of Tallahassee more than 500 years ago.

The capital of a Mississippian chiefdom that thrived across much of the Leon County area between 900-1500 A.D., the Lake Jackson Mounds remain one of the most impressive Native American ceremonial sites in Florida.

The state park preserves two large platform mounds that were once the center of a mound complex where ancient Native Americans gathered for political and religious purposes. Archaeologists working at the site have found remarkable artifacts, including elaborately engraved copper breastplates made by the early inhabitants of the site.

The park also preserves a beautiful section of woodlands where a nature trail leads past a mill dam and the dikes of rice fields that were cultivated during the 1820s.

To learn more about Lake Jackson Mounds and to see additional photos, please visit www.exploresouthernhistory.com/lakejackson1.