Introduction
If you are interested in Native American history or want to learn more about the culture and customs of these ancient peoples, there is no better place than Parkin, Arkansas. This small town on the banks of the St. Francis River is home to the Parkin Archaeological State Park, where visitors can explore the remnants of a Native American village that dates back over 500 years.
The Parkin Archaeological State Park
The Parkin Archaeological State Park is a result of excavations that were done between 1961 and 1964 by Dr. James K. Hampson of the University of Arkansas. Hampson’s team uncovered evidence of a village that was occupied by the Plum Bayou people from approximately AD 1000 to 1600. The site was designated as a National Historic Landmark just a few years later, and it has been preserved as a state park ever since. Today, visitors to the park can see these remnants up close.
The Village and Its Residents
The Plum Bayou people of Parkin were a Mississippian culture. They were farmers and hunters, and they built their homes with thatched roofs and mud walls. Archaeologists have found evidence of a number of structures, including fine houses, commonplace houses, and a temple or council house.
Artifacts found at the site have also given us insight into the daily lives of the village’s residents. Stone tools, pottery, and other household objects have been discovered, as have many pieces of art made from materials like copper and marine shells.
The Importance of Agriculture
One of the most significant aspects of the Plum Bayou people’s culture is their reliance on agriculture. Researchers believe that their agricultural practices were highly advanced for their time. They grew crops like corn, beans, and squash, and they likely maintained a complex system of crop rotation. They also used a variety of tools made from animal bones, wood, and stone to help them tend their fields.
The Role of Religion
Religion played a significant role in the lives of the Plum Bayou people. Archaeologists have found many artifacts related to their religious practices, including effigy pipes and other ceremonial objects. They also believe that the temple or council house was a central location in the village where important religious ceremonies took place.
Visiting the Park
Today, the Parkin Archaeological State Park is open to visitors. There is a museum on-site where you can learn more about the Plum Bayou people and the excavations that were done at the site. Guided tours are also available that will take you around the park and show you the remains of the village. You can see the foundation of the council house, the mounds that were used as burial sites, and the outlines of several houses.
Conclusion
Visiting the Parkin Archaeological State Park is a great way to learn about Arkansas’ Native American history. This site provides us with a window into the lives and customs of the Plum Bayou people, and it reminds us of the importance of preserving our cultural heritage. If you’re interested in history or just looking for a unique and educational outing, make sure to put the Parkin Archaeological State Park on your must-visit list.