Winter Solstice Walks, Spiro Mounds Archaeological Center

Visit Spiro Mounds Archaeological Center on Thursday, December 21, for guided walks to learn about the winter solstice and how prehistoric American Indians dealt with the changes in the seasons. There will be guided walks at 11 am, 2 pm, and 7 pm, led by Dennis Peterson, archaeologist and director of Spiro Mounds Archaeological Center. Each walk will take approximately two hours and require one mile of easy walking.

The pace of life today is so rushed and hectic that the natural rhythms of the sun, moon, and stars are often forgotten. American Indian farmers understood these rhythms. In the rhythm of the sun, the winter solstice is a period of rest, preparation, and celebration. Peterson will discuss this unique prehistoric American Indian mound site, the types of mounds, why they were created, and why some of the mounds are lined up for the sunsets of the solstices and equinoxes. He will share the history of excavations, American Indian ceremonies, and stories and tales of the unusual happenings associated with the mounds.

The 2 pm walk will end just before sunset, which is when the alignment will take place. Experience this unique site as seen through the eyes of an archaeologist. The fee for this tour is $5 for adults and $3 for children, in addition to the daily admission fee. OHS members do not pay the daily admission fee. No reservations are required except for large groups. Be certain to dress for the weather. Spiro Mounds Archaeological Center is located three miles east of Spiro on Highway 9/271 and four miles north on Lock and Dam Road. For more information please email spiro@okhistory.org or call 918-962-2062.