Our journey of appreciation to honor the legacy of First Nation People continues as we visit the “city of Saint Petersburg, Florida”. Described as a peninsular “city”, “Saint Petersburg” is surrounded by 244 miles of shoreline along “Tampa Bay”, “Boca Ciega Bay”, the Gulf of Mexico, and intracoastal waterways. We learned earlier about numerous mound sites located around this region, so we wanted to visit the area where a temple mound signifies the location of a large Indigenous village.

According to survey reports, this site is significant based on the unique pottery designs found and the methods used for constructing elaborate ceremonial and burial mound systems which are associated with the so-called “Weeden Island and Safety Harbor cultures”. Archaeological records also suggest this temple mound was built by Indigenous People called “Tocobaga” who lived in “Pinellas County” and the “Tampa Bay” region. It was thought to have served as the Chief’s abode and used for storing ceremonial objects. Additionally, the site became known for the legend regarding the Chief’s daughter, Princess Hirrihigua, when she joined other women of the village to spare the life of an explorer—a story similar to the Pocahontas legend. An onsite marker describes the ‘History of Hirrihigua.’

Located near the southernmost shore of the peninsula, the “Pinellas Point” Temple Mound stands about 17 feet tall and has a flat top measuring about 104 feet long and 19 feet wide on each end, with a center area of about 29 ft where an access ramp might have been placed. The mound is said to be composed of alternate layers of sandy soil and shells, and its oblong base area measures about 49 by 154 feet. Reportedly, the site was mapped in 1880 showing its full extent and ramp feature to the south; however, in 1929, a portion of this location was removed to construct “property” to the west, so the mound is smaller than its original size.

*Abundant shell fragments noted in sandy soil, under decomposing leaves.*

We arrived in the “Pinellas Point neighborhood” at about 5:00pm and Jamal walked around the block to identify the location at “1800 Mound Park Place South”. We walked around the fenced area to the front entrance and were pleasantly surprised by what we saw. This is definitely a larger mound than we had envisioned—and yet here it stands…conspicuously nestled between two houses within a seemingly quiet community, whose outspoken passion resulted in concerted efforts to maintain and ensure preservation of this valuable Ancestral Landmark in the present and into the future.

Visually appreciating our surroundings, we experienced peacefulness just being in a natural environment of wonderful trees, shrubs and plants gracing the surface of this sacred mound structure. We observed tall sabal palms, carrotwoods, pine trees, saw palmettos, and sword ferns, as well as loads of leafy green vines and other invasive and indigenous vegetation. Amid the dense foliage, we noted what looks like coontie plants, which are described as cycads or living fossils (ancient plants like ferns). Reportedly, Indigenous People exercised care when processing the roots of this plant to make a starchy paste that was dried and used as bread flour. Later, several mills began processing coonties for the starch industry, producing what was known as “Florida Arrowroot.” Also, this plant is necessary for survival of the rare Atala butterfly. What an attractive addition to the scenery.

As we continued to scan the site, we grasped the girth and height of the mound by tracing its upward trend highlighted by sabal palms, banyans, and majestic old oak trees. Much of the rising terrain featured layers of fallen leaves in colorful shades of brown, gold and tan, mixed with seeds, small twigs, and dried palmetto fronds. Amid patches of grassy vegetation, we noted that the pathway leading to areas around this location contained sandy soil with lots a shell fragments.

*Image of dense vegetation atop American Mound “Terra Ceia and Tampa Bay“*

Climbing to the top of the mound, we paused to review signage about the presence of “Calusa” culture in the area and telling about the tragic story involving a French friar and the Natives. Moving forward, we were captivated by the interesting banyan tree formations that created their own ‘forests’ from the aerial roots that hang down, taking root in the ground. As their growth continues, banyans can reach 100 feet tall and produce massive limbs with prop roots spreading over several acres. As a matter of fact, the record holder as the largest banyan in the Continental U.S.A. is a “Florida” Champion Tree that was gifted back in 1925 when it was only 4 feet tall. Currently, it is located in “Fort Meyers” and is 84 feet tall with a circumference of 376 inches. The various intricacies displayed by roots of these trees is amazing—each one is similar, yet very different. Amazing to see.

*Banyan tree growing just in front of the mound with striking aerial roots. It is widely reported that banyan trees are native to India yet said to be invasive to North America.*

The canvassing view from on top of the mound is wonderful and we proudly embrace the sensation of connecting with Ancestral Moors as we honor their legacy. We enjoyed looking up to appreciate the beautiful sky that showcases a canopy of delightful palm trees, banyans, and those large sprawling branches of sturdy old oak trees; scoping the downward terrain abundant with nature’s gifts of green plants and vegetation, sustained by nutritious soil and sandy ground surfaces adorning the mound with a colorful mixture of brown leaves; and lastly…certainly not least…those lively birds continuously filled the ear waves with melodious sounds. What a beautiful moment for quiet reflection and remembrance of the present past. We are thankful.

We look forward to sharing more fascinating journeys as our Diamond Legacy America series continues to honor outstanding achievements by First Nation People, their Descendants, and beyond.

*American Mound with native coontie plants, saw palmetto and hardwood trees atop.*

Mound at "Pinellas Point - St Petersburg, Florida"