Spirit Mound Township near Vermillion in Clay County, South Dakota — The American Midwest (Upper Plains)
Hill of Little Spirits
— Missouri National Recreational River —
April 15, 2023
1. Hill of Little Spirits Marker
On August 25, 1804, several members of the Lewis and Clark Expedition left the river "to visit a High Hill...Supposed to be a place of Deavels...with remarkable large heads...[that] kill all persons who...attemp to approach the hill...."
They apparently did not see any evidence of "little spirits," but from the hilltop they did see large herds of bison and elk on the surrounding plains and large flocks of birds feeding on insects blown up the slopes.
Captions:
The weather was hot and humid. The nine-mile walk was too much for Seaman, Lewis's Newfoundland dog. Before reaching the mound, he had to be taken back to the campsite near the Vermillion River.
August 21-26, 1804
On his map, William Clark labeled the "Hill of little Devils," which is known today as Spirit Mound.
Erected by Spirit Mound Trust, South Dakota Department of Game, Fish and Parks, and National Park Service U.S. Department of the Interior.
Topics. This historical marker is listed in this topic list: Exploration. A significant historical date for this entry is August 25, 1804.
Location. 42° 52.137′ N, 96° 57.369′ W. Marker is near Vermillion, South Dakota, in Clay County. It is in Spirit Mound Township. Marker can
this page online
Other nearby markers. At least 8 other markers are within walking distance of this marker. Spirit Mound Monument (a few steps from this marker); Daughters of the American Revolution Spirit Mound Monument (a few steps from this marker); Canotina Paha | Mountain of Little People (about 300 feet away, measured in a direct line); Spirit Mound (about 500 feet away); From Lewis and Clark to the Future (about 500 feet away); Lewis and Clark Were Here...and Here... (about 500 feet away); Lewis and Clark Visit Spirit Mound (about 500 feet away); Hill of Chalk (approx. ¼ mile away). Touch for a list and map of all markers in Vermillion.
April 15, 2023
2. Hill of Little Spirits Marker
Spirit Mound can be seen in the background.
April 15, 2023
3. Hill of Little Spirits Marker
Credits. This page was last revised on May 5, 2023. It was originally submitted on May 4, 2023. This page has been viewed 80 times since then and 25 times this year. Photos: 1, 2, 3. submitted on May 4, 2023.
