DiamondLegacyAmerica.org

ANCIENT MOUND AND VILLAGE AT WETUMPKA ALABAMA

After enjoying a delightful Journey of Appreciation in the beautiful “City of Selma” and having experienced many scenic views of the incredible Alabama River, our travels continued along “Highways 80 and 231.” We were headed to a small quaint “town” with a seemingly Indigenous sounding name… “Wetumpka”… where some Aboriginal mounds are located.

It seems the name has a Creek language meaning; reportedly, “we-wau-tum-cau” translates to ‘rumbling water’…a phrase they used to describe the point along the Coosa River where the rapids swept across the rocks and the sound could be heard far into the distance. This is also the place chosen by Aboriginal People to establish their village (“Taskigi”) on the high bluffs at the confluence of the Coosa and Tallapoosa Rivers—an ingenious demonstration of strategic planning. Apparently, this position was lustfully sought after by European factions whose stories “somehow” influenced the historical “town’s” mantra (“Wetumpka—A Proud Past”) and increased tourism around the local area, which ultimately boosted the economy.

Feeling the warmth of the still sunny skies at around 4:00pm, we arrived at the site that was unfortunately being called “Fort Toulouse – Jackson” after the “colonial” ‘events’ that supposedly happened in the early 1800s. Jamal and I adamantly avoid so-called conflicts in commentary and documentation. And with good reason—they are generally words without proof; stories created to justify European invasive actions on Aboriginal lands of First Nation People. So, we choose not to participate in this charade that must have required incalculable expenditure of lives and resources in order to support these ‘events’ (some, reportedly, taking place simultaneously all over the Americas). Hmmm…

Of course, our focus was on finding out where the Ancient mounds and village are located. I grabbed my jacket because the cool air of late afternoon was slowly encroaching and Jamal readied his cameras. We started by delighting in the natural scenery surrounding trails leading in many directions and featuring lots of towering trees, shrubs, and vegetative ground cover that reflects seasonal changes. I truly love the transition that nature designs during late spring and fall, showcasing many colorful rural terrains and dense forest areas, as well as facilitating natural recycling of forest debris. What a wonderful symbiotic relationship to witness.

After a brief walk along one of the nearby trails, we decided to head towards an open field that had elevated flat terrain and was situated behind a gated entry point with posted identification signage, which Jamal instinctively bypasses or takes a photo of it (I usually pause to scan most of them and really appreciate his pics later). He motioned in the direction of two women who could be seen and heard in the distance. Since I was closest to them, I approached to ask for directions to the Aboriginal mound. One of them was only too happy to proclaim her “Native American” heritage, stating that she comes here often to honor her people. She pointed in the direction where Jamal was waiting and said “just keep walking and you’ll get to the mound.” She also said there would be a bench enjoying the most beautiful cliffside views of the river; and if you’re really adventurous--keep walking to get an even better look at the two rivers. We thanked them and began our trek to the mound trail.

Approaching the elevated terrain that we observed earlier, it looks similar to platform structures seen at other mound sites; however, the top surface is defaced by displays replicating aspects of history for the namesake park. We kept walking and talking about the natural surroundings. Thus far, the trail was mostly an easy path across neatly trimmed grass, yet we could see the forest just ahead. Along the way, we paused to admire the beauty of a stately oak tree with a wide girth that supported outstretched leaf-filled branches. It is reminiscent of the popular live oaks found in “Florida” Territory.

We began noticing a difference in terrain as the trail led into the woods, which is denser on the left-hand side with an array of tall trees and vegetation, and natural forest debris on the ground. Having traversed some distance, we expected to see the mound by now and started intensely looking inside the tree scape. On the right, as the trail widened more, we glanced through gaps and surprisingly saw the river below us—we had been walking along the high bluff. The mound had to be close.

Soon enough we caught sight of this amazing structure revealing itself behind the shadow of many trees and shrubs gracing its surface…we were momentarily captivated. Jamal captured some beautiful images. This ancient monument appears to be more than 25 feet tall and has a huge base (especially noticeable as we went around it to see other perspectives). This is an incredible experience, and we collectively expressed gratitude. Moments spent honoring our ancestors is blissful.

Returning to the trail, we spotted an even wider gap in the foliage, in front of a seating area—and wow--what a fantastic panoramic view overlooking the river! We must have been 80 feet up and able to closely witness the sloped surface, leading down to the riverbank, that consisted of sandy soil embedded with trees and shrubs. The waning sunlight cast reflections on the water and fed energy to the natural environment. We give thanks for this perfect day, being in the presence of such grace and beauty.

Jamal wanted to continue forward, venturing off the familiar trail and deeper into the woods, to see the point where the two rivers crossed. Alright…I was curious too, however, we were starting to lose daylight and I preferred to head back to the main trail. Entering this apparent expanse of forest land, we wondered if this is where the village of Taskigi was located. Reportedly, “the site featured the platform mound with a summit structure, a large central plaza surrounded by houses and other buildings, a defensive timber palisade, and a borrow pit.” Also, it is said that nearby fields contained crops like amaranth, and other plants. We followed the path that seemed to lead to the river and once we reached that point, Jamal went down to the edge overlooking the scenic river.

All we could do to contain our excitement and thankfulness was to express it while quickly getting back on the trail. We just had to stop for another look at the panoramic river view and, of course, the ancient mound was still resonating in our consciousness so we spent a few moments there in solemn appreciation.

Adherence to the Universal Principles of Love, Truth, Peace, Freedom and Justice:

Remaining ever mindful that these journeys to honor of the Legacy of First Nation People are very important, we recognize that the use of Aboriginal names comingled with those assigned in “colonial” scripts, could lead to misinterpretation of our intended goals. Much of our research involves using these materials to assemble factual data verified through many resources. We do our best to enlighten ourselves and others regarding the heritable estate associated with the birthright of First Nation People. Your documented comments are welcomed and appreciated as our travels continue across the Great Lands of the Americas.