Town Creek Indian Mound

A visitor enters through the guard tower, an entrance so narrow that only one person at a time can go through. It, as well as the buildings, are made with wattle-and-daub plaster. When the Indians dwelt there, a guard would also stand lookout atop the tower.

The town house is situated on an impressive mound. As the first buildings fell in and was filled in to provide a flat surface to build a new building, the mound grew. These structures served as the ceremonial and political center of the town. Important religious ceremonies were held here.

The mortuary served as living quarters for an extended clan family, as well as a resting place for their dead. At one time, at least ten such buildings dotted Town  Creek.

Some of the huts were simple residences. The East Lodge sits next to the Little River as an example of these. The town hosted meetings, games, feasts, marriage announcements, dances, and other activities.

Many different groups resided at Town Creek over the decades, but perhaps the most noted one is the South Appalachian Mississippian Culture. This Pee Dee group of Woodland Indians differed from the more northern mound builders, who made their mounds for burial purposes.

Today Town Creek is a State Historic Site located in Montgomery County, North Carolina. It's free and open to the public Tuesday - Saturday 9 am - 5 pm and on Sunday 1 - 5 pm, except on holidays. 

910-439-6802
www.towncreekindianmound.com
towncreek@ncdcr.gov

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