Visit Miamisburg Mound
The Miamisburg Mound has intrigued locals and visitors for generations, and there are still plenty of secrets to uncover from prehistoric Native American creation. Attracting people from all over to marvel at its size and history, the Miamisburg Mound offers a glimpse into Ohio’s past. Learn more about the history of this attraction and visitor information, with this guide to the Miamisburg Mound from Mercedes-Benz of Centerville. Then make sure you add this to your summer bucket list!
Miamisburg Mound Size
The Miamisburg Mound is currently considered the largest conical shaped earthwork in the United States, and may possibly be the largest in the world. The circumference of this impressive site is 877 ft and the height peaked at more than 68 ft. Today, due to an attempt to excavate the Mound, the height peaks at a still notable 65 ft.
Origin & Creators
Once the site of an ancient burial ground, the Mound is believed to have been built by members of the prehistoric Adena culture. Earning the nickname, “Mound Builders” the Adena were the first to build burial mounds and earthworks in Ohio. Unsurprisingly, given their affinity for working with the dirt, they became the first to create pottery in Ohio, creating clay pots as tall as 18 inches high.
In addition to being potters, the Adena were also the first to domesticate and grow plants such as squash, sunflower, and pumpkins. Continuing the conical theme of the Mound, the Adena would often set up two to four cone-shaped bark huts as their residence, and sometimes encircle them with circular dirt walls reaching 4 to 5 ft in height.
Burials & Excavation
The Adena had elaborate death ceremonies that became more intricate as the society grew and developed. The one attempt in excavation showed that the mound had been built in layers over time. Some bodies were discovered encased in square and rectangle tombs, while one skeleton was found wrapped in bark.
Modern Day Mound
The Miamisburg Mound came under the protection of the Ohio Historical Society in 1929, after the land had been purchased for a park, and then donated, by Charles F. Kettering of Dayton. Since then, 116 cement stairs have been placed in the side of the Mound to allow visitors a view from the top. The Mount is now encased in a 37-acre park, and visitors can enjoy picnic areas and playgrounds during their visit. The park and Mound are open year-round during daylight hours.
Experience Ohio With Mercedes-Benz of Centerville
From visiting Miamisburg Mound to learning about Dayton’s aviation history to finding museums and other things to do in Cincinnati, Ohio surprises with its interesting attractions. And, when you let Mercedes-Benz of Centerville be your guide, you can trust you’ll be pointed to the best of the Oakwood and Bellbrook-areas. Reach out to learn more!
