Silver Mound Archeological District, Native American archaeological site in Jackson County, Wisconsin.
Silver Mound is an archaeological district in Wisconsin where quarry pits reveal that Indigenous peoples mined and worked quartzite for thousands of years. The landscape contains numerous extraction pits, workshop areas, and rock shelters that show the scope of ancient activity at this location.
The site was first used about 11,000 years ago when early peoples inhabited the region. Over many centuries, it became a major quartzite extraction center, revealing its role in ancient trade networks across North America.
Rock shelters nestled along the bluff display paintings and carvings that reflect the spiritual beliefs of Indigenous peoples. These artworks reveal how the land held deep meaning and connection for those who lived here.
The district features marked trails and interpretive signage showing where mining and stone work took place. Wear sturdy shoes since the terrain is uneven and the area is exposed to outdoor conditions.
Tools made from this quartzite turned up hundreds of miles away across multiple states, showing that prehistoric people maintained long-distance trade routes. This discovery reveals that this mining area held importance for groups living far beyond the region.
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