Mound Village (Cherry Mound) - "Sanford, Florida"
Large, Ancient, American Mound supporting a bevy of tall trees, “Sanford, Florida”.
What has become one of our favorite aboriginal mound sites
is located in “Seminole County, Florida”, along the Welaka (“St Johns”) River. We were very excited to learn there was a mound so close to us—in “Sanford”. Somehow this delightful Indigenous location escaped our list. Additionally, a newspaper article reported that “Sanford’s” ‘Indian’ Mound is but “a bare remnant of the glory it once was.” Essentially, the ancestors left their signature here. Now that really piqued our interest in this site.
Filled with enthusiasm, we went to find the location, which was like adding a cherry on top of our quest to visit and document mound sites all over Florida. So, we affectionately call this site “Cherry Mound.” We found articles that refer to it as the ‘Mound Village in Sanford’ or ‘Sanford’s Mound Site’ and, for this reason, we’ll use these terms to help you identify the site.
Old oak trees risen high above American Mound, draped with moss, near Welaka River.
As we traveled on “I-4” towards “Sanford” on a beautiful sunshiny day, the ride was quite pleasurable and traffic was moving along smoothly in our favor. Approaching the site on Chickasaw “Drive”, we noticed clusters of tall moss-draped trees on the lot across the road, adding an aura of peacefulness and providing terrific views of the great Welaka River. Then, the mound came into view and WOW— it was much larger than expected. We’re feeling so good right now, seeing this historic site so well preserved.
Jamal led the way to this fantastic mound with camera in hand, methodically traversing the site, capturing every aspect that he could around its perimeter. After standing in silent amazement for a few moments, I joined him as we carefully walked up to the top. There, on the left-hand side, stands an ancient oak tree. What an awesome sight! This old tree proudly holds its place with majestic style and grace among all the other trees surrounding the site. Can you imagine how much life these trees have witnessed? If we could hear them speak, we’d learn more about our legacy in this area.
Old oak planted firmly atop Ancient American Mound amongst various trees and shrubs.
Standing on top, we observed the mound’s height (maybe 20 feet) and its girth. While walking around up there, we closely admired many old trees with moss clinging and dancing gently in the breeze (including palm trees, oak trees, and even an orange tree or two). There’s much life to see and hear if you slow down enough to notice; especially, listening out for the cheerful birds making their presence known as they fly around this natural habitat. We spotted squirrels playing hide and seek in and under the forest-like canopy, sometimes stopping to chomp on tasty morsels found along the way. Plus there are patches of greenery and fallen leaves resting on the ground. Such abundant pleasure.
Trees and dense foliage thrive atop American Mound
Before trekking back down the mound, we just looked up and spun around slowly (like when we were children with arms stretched out). Our eyes embraced the delicate bursts of skylight peeping through different shapes of the tree branches. The view is captivating and feels amazing. We both sensed a memorable connection with this precious moment and place. We were even inspired to stay longer to experience it again and again.
As we traveled a short distance heading away from the site, we were compelled to turn around and go back for another look at this amazing mound. We are very thankful for the opportunity to include it on our list of Indigenous Mound Sites in The Land of Flowers. Additionally, we’re proud to share the journey with you and hope your visit will be equally as gratifying.
Scenic view of Welaka “St John’s” River near large American Mound “Florida“.
And following is a video description of Mound Village in “Sanford, Florida”