Golden Eagle-Toppmeyer Site

The Golden Eagle-Toppmeyer Site is an archaeological complex in Calhoun County consisting of two distinct areas: a geometric earthwork formation and an adjacent residential zone along a river. The entire area spans roughly 45 acres and combines engineered earth structures with evidence of human settlement.

The site dates from 150 BC to 450 AD and was a significant center of the Havana Hopewell culture, a society known for extensive trade networks. The geometric earthworks and residential areas show how this civilization developed and evolved over several centuries.

The site reveals how ancient communities shaped their landscape with mounds and geometric forms that served as gathering places and symbols of community identity. Visitors can observe how the layout of these elements reflected the connection between people and their territory.

The complex is located at the intersection of Quarry Road and Illinois River Road and welcomes visitors for research and observation. The open landscape requires standard outdoor footwear, and visitors should take care to stay on designated pathways to protect the archaeological features.

This is the only geometric earthwork from the Middle Woodland period found in the central Mississippi River valley. This rarity makes it an exceptional example of construction techniques developed by early societies in this region.