Natchez in Adams County, Mississippi — The American South (East South Central)
Historic Plaza
The Natchez Indians used the open area between the Great Sun's Mound and the Temple Mound for religious and social ceremonies. In 1725, the funeral ceremonies for the Tattooed Serpent, brother of the Great Sun, were held on this plaza. Le Page Du Pratz, who lived in the French colony at Natchez from 1720 to 1728, described the event in detail in his book Histoire de la Louisiane (published 1758). Du Pratz and others documented the Natchez Indians' practice of human sacrifice during the funeral rites for the deceased chiefs. Individuals selected for sacrifice would serve as the chief in the next life.
Topics. This historical marker is listed in this topic list: Native Americans.
Location. 31° 31.449′ N, 91° 22.757′ W. Marker is in Natchez, Mississippi, in Adams County. Marker can be reached from Jeff Davis Boulevard near South Temple Road, on the right when traveling east. Located inside the Grand Village of the Natchez historic site. Touch for map. Marker is at or near this postal address: 400 Jeff Davis Boulevard, Natchez MS 39120, United States of America. Touch for directions.
Other nearby markers. At least 8 other markers are within walking distance of this marker. Native Structures (here, next to this marker); Road to Fort Rosalie (within shouting distance of this marker); Ceremonial Center (within shouting distance of this marker); Abandoned Mound (about 300 feet away, measured in a direct line); Historical Archaeology - the Chief's House and Temple (about 300 feet away); Three Archaeological Excavations (about 300 feet away); Historic Use of Ceremonial Mounds (about 500 feet away); Conflict with the French (about 500 feet away). Touch for a list and map of all markers in Natchez.
Credits. This page was last revised on November 24, 2017. It was originally submitted on November 24, 2017, by Cajun Scrambler of Assumption, Louisiana. This page has been viewed 259 times since then and 17 times this year. Photos: 1, 2. submitted on November 24, 2017.