This educational presentation is by Norris White, Jr.

1. -The Burial Mound-
Only the elite members were buried in the Burial Mound. Archaeologists estimate that
over a 400-500 year period, 75-90 individuals have been buried in the mound. Archaeologists
also discovered that the Burial Mound served as a mortuary site.
Beginning around 850-900A.D., the first burial occurred. There were 8 individuals, 6
adults and 2 children, laid in a log tomb at the bottom of a large square pit 11ft. below ground
level. The earth mounded around the burial was the beginning of the mound-building
sequence. The occasional occurrence of multiple burials suggests the cultural practice of
sacrificing took place. Family members and/or servants were sacrificed and buried with high
ranking members of the elite class.
During 400 years of ceremonial burials, the mound rose to a height greater than 20 ft.
The growth of the mound was a gradual feat that occurred in 6 stages of burial activity. Each
burial was identified by differing characteristics in pit location, offerings and burying practices.
Illustrations by Nola Davis