Poverty Point World Heritage Site

About

Sometime between 1700 and 1100 BC, prehistoric Native Americans constructed the Poverty Point World Heritage Site. This enormous earthwork complex required around 2 million cubic yards of soil, all of which was moved in baskets - these people didn’t have pack animals, or even wheels. Archaeologists believe the C-shaped series of ridges and giant mounds were used as both a permanent settlement and ceremonial center. Start your visit at the museum to learn about the history of the site, and see artifacts including tools and vessels constructed from stone that originated 800 miles away. Once you have a grasp on the history, follow the walking trail through the ridges to the earthwork built by hunter gatherers in North America.