Let’s briefly recap our journey before proceeding. Part Two of this Ancient Mound Appreciation Guide started at American Beach, Florida (“NaNa Dune”). The high peaks of NaNa and Little NaNa dunes are formed by natural law. There is still a splendid similarity between this natural dune system and indigenous, constructed mounds. The People of the Land gather together beneath the proverbial shoulders of these massive structures to grow and heal in peace. Hallowed is the energy that sustains the natural beauty of such a place where Original Inhabitants find “relaxation without humiliation”.
(“Etowah Mounds”) We enjoyed surface level and high-bank views of the Etowah River along the journey from “Dahlonega Georgia” until reaching the ancient monuments at the Etowah Mound Center. And over the lengthy miles and many days we partook in as many museum tours as time and budgeting allowed. We panned for placer gold at Cherokee County, searched for minerals like pyrite near old mines, did a whole heap of window shopping at various “townships”, and secured memories to enrich a life time. It must be mentioned that meditation amongst these extraordinary mounds gifts generously.
(“Ocmulgee Mounds”) For those who enjoy brisk hikes in clean places, Ocmulgee Mounds will feel like home base. Or even if just kicking of your shoes and getting grounded sounds more refreshing—indulge! There is also an extensive museum on location so plan accordingly if interested; however, with mound sites, the true gifts are sun-kissed.
The Burial Mound at Ormond Beach rests just off the Kjipuktuk (Halifax) River. You can imagine how time might sail by at such a place where mourning doves softly call, cabbage palm flowers delight the senses and silvery mullet leap boldly from the water. We offer peace to the ancestors.
(Nocoroco-Tomoka River Mound) And one might ask, while gazing at the natural splendor along the Tomoka River, “Where is the mound?” You are standing on it! Representatives at the “Florida Department of Environmental Services” state that, “...the Tomoka Point is vulnerable to erosion from wave action and loss of plant cover by visitor use” and they have implemented erosion control measures. Tread gingerly upon these sacred grounds.
Ever Onward
PART THREE
Monuments Featured: “Mound and Coquina Structure New Smyrna”, “Seminole Rest Oak Hill”, Emerald Mounds Mississippi, Rock Eagle Mound Putnam County, “Teotihuacan-Pyramids near Mexico City”,
Mound and Coquina Structure – New Smyrna Beach, Florida
This ancient monument remains steadfast overlooking the west side of the Rio de Ais (“Indian River“), which evinces thousands of years of human existence along its natural shorelines. Reportedly, the Village of Caparaca was established by Indigenous Ais people living on the land prior to being labeled "New Smyrna" by European settlers. The coquina structure within the mound exhibits an intact foundation that has survived several unsuccessful attempts to add buildings on top of it. Presently, the mound and coquina structure are called the "Old Fort Park" Archaeological Site and surveying reveals the coquina ruins encompass about 3 acres; the large preshistoric mound is said to date to AD 700-1500; and nearly half of the mound was excavated. Also, many of the "official" reports offer varied opinions relative to construction of the foundations and most agree it is not a fort. In our opinion, though, it resembles many ancient coquina fortifications viewable at locations across the country and particularly, Mexico City.
Video brief - “New Smyrna” Coquina Structure - Mound
Mounds at “Seminole Rest - Oak Hill, Florida”
Several ancient mounds (reported to date from 2000 BC to 1565 AD) contribute to scenic views experienced along the waters of Mosquito Lagoon. Reportedly, they have significance as the only remaining intact mounds known to retain data about the "Orange-St Johns II" periods. Also, it is said that Timucuan and Ais peoples inhabited this part of Florida Territory and these magnificent monuments grace the terrain at "Seminole Rest" (an historic site which preserves these Indigenous mounds as well as the history of the structures built on top of them). The largest mound is said to be around 13 feet tall, measuring about 740 feet by 340 feet, and archaeologists speculate that it served as a distribution center for collecting and processing clams. Excavation recoveries at the site include projectile points, pottery sherds, and shell necklace beads.
“Emerald Mounds - Natchez, Mississippi”
One of America's largest ancient monuments was built by Mississippian Mound Builders (ancestors of the Natchez people) who established villages and flat-top mounds within the so-called Mississippi River Valley. Spanning eight acres, Emerald is an impressive rectangular platform mound (770 x 435 feet) said to stand about 35 feet tall; however, two secondary mounds on top increase its total height to around 60 feet. Some early observances claim there were six mounds on the north and south edge of the platform (3 on each side). Emerald Mound was significant as a ceremonial center for nearby villages and archaeologists have identified more than a dozen mound groups within 25 miles. It is said to be the third largest earthwork north of Mexico, following Monks Mound at Cahokia (Illinois) and Mound A at Poverty Point (Louisiana).
Rock Eagle Effigy Mound – Eatonton, Georgia
A stunning ancient monument, believed to have been built during the "Middle Woodland" period, is one of only two stone effigy mounds located east of the Mississippi River. An onsite historic sign states the Rock Eagle Mound Effigy rises 10 feet above the surrounding surface and is composed of white quartz rocks forming the shape of a bird in flight with head turned eastward (direction of the rising sun). Its wing span is 120 feet from tip to tip and measures 102 feet from head to tail. Some archaeologists speculate the mound was later inhabited by Mississippian, Muscogee-Creek and Cherokee cultures at Georgia territories, who continued to honor ancestral ceremonies and practices. Excavations and research found evidence of sacred human burials and a small amount of artifacts, necessitating reconstruction of this significant mound effigy. Thankfully the esteemed legacy of Original Inhabitants is preserved at its location near the Oconee River and Rock Eagle Mound is on the National Register of Historic Places.
Video Brief - Rock Eagle Mound
Images from a Journey of Appreciation to Rock Hawk Mound
Teotihuacan - Pyramids Near Mexico City
Numerous phenomenal landmarks exist on the vast terrains within the Americas, particularly Mexico City. Teotihuacan (an Aztec word meaning "the place where Gods were created") is a renowned architectural marvel that also showcases the ingenious planning by the ancient city's builders. What a memorable journey to appreciate the heritage and historical significance of the Pyramids of the Sun and the Moon, as well as the massive plaza featuring other structures like the Temple of Quetzalcoatl (a.k.a., the Plumed Serpent). Also, we watched as locals celebrated in the street during a major religious festival and pridefully presented their native artistry (pottery, clothing, tasty cuisine, et al) at outdoor markets and other venues. We enjoyed pleasant outings surrounded by people who graciously found ways to interpret our sometimes limited Moorish Latin vocabulary.
In addition to abundant visual observances of ancient buildings and sites throughout the region, the National Institute of Anthropology and History offers a plethora of documentation and exhibits that acknowledge the Cultura Madre's (meaning the Mother Culture’s) importance to humanity. It is said that Teotihuacan is one of the archaeological sites with the longest history of exploration in Mexico. Reportedly, the Pyramid of the Sun was "reconstituted" to add a “fifth tier” and, since 1962, stringent guidelines have been implemented for excavation of incredible discoveries contained within the cave (Palacio de Quetzalmariposa) located under the Pyramid of the Sun.
Video Brief of journey to Teotihuacan Pyramids