Effigy Mounds

From 700-1200 AD the Late Woodland tribes living in the Milwaukee River Basin built Effigy Mounds. They were built around the large Middle Woodland Mounds, which indicated a shared culture and understanding of the sacred area. The tribes would build them in clusters (20-30 mounds) on high ground, bluffs, or terraces over looking major rivers, streams, lakes and large wetlands areas that have spiritual connections for Native Americans. They were constructed in areas whose resources could support a gathering of large number of people on a seasonal basis.

There are many forms in which effigy mounds can be found. Some of these forms include birds, animals and human beings. Two studies that were done by Chandler Rowe and Clark Mallam found that effigy mounds can be divided into three classes, which are earth air and water. Shapes of these mounds include bear, buffalo, canine, deer, and turtles.

Many question the meanings of various effigy mounds. There are two possible theories of why the mounds were built. Clark Mallam believed that the mounds were built to symbolize and maintain balance and harmony with the natural world. The second theory by Robert Hall took this a step further. He believed the reason for these mounds was to depict powerful sprits that inhabit the upper world and lower world.

More information can be found through the Wisconsin State Historical Society.