Prather Site

The Prather Site is an ancient settlement in Indiana featuring four earthen mounds arranged in a rectangular pattern around a central plaza. The layout sits on a high plateau and shows how this center was carefully planned.

The settlement was established around 1000 and remained active until approximately 1180, based on evidence from excavations and dating of the largest mound. This period represents a significant era in the history of Indigenous societies in this region.

The site displays characteristic features of Indigenous settlements from this period, including pottery vessels made with crushed marine shell and black-painted bottles. These objects reveal the craftsmanship traditions of those who lived here.

The site sits on pasture land still used for farming, which means the mounds are best viewed from elevated positions. Visitors should wear appropriate clothing for open ground and respect private property boundaries.

Unlike most similar centers of that era, this one sat on a highland plateau fed by natural springs instead of river valleys. This unusual location made the site special for ceremonial gatherings.